How To Academy Podcast Ray Nayler - Why Dystopian Fiction Matters
Oct 14, 2025
Ray Nayler, a diplomat-turned-novelist known for his thought-provoking works like Where the Axe is Buried, discusses the intricate connections between dystopia and real-world scenarios. He explores the rise of authoritarianism and the impact of technology, drawing parallels between China’s social credit system and Russia. Nayler emphasizes the cathartic nature of tragedy in literature and the importance of collective activism. His insights into the fear experienced by authoritarian leaders and the potential vulnerabilities of democracy provide a captivating look at current global challenges.
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Dystopia As Place, Not Time
- Ray Nayler argues dystopia is often a place rather than a time and exists next door in many societies.
- He writes grim futures but holds an underlying optimism that systems can be reclaimed and improved.
Transposing Atrocities To Raise Empathy
- Nayler purposely transposes China's social credit treatment of Uyghurs to a European-style Federation to raise empathy.
- He emphasizes most abuses depicted are real and moving them closer culturally increases readers' emotional engagement.
Why We Read Dystopia
- People consume dystopia because tragedy can liberate feelings of entrapment and simplify hyper-complex realities.
- Dystopian narratives offer an overarching story that helps people ask questions about modern complexity.
