

What Chinese Science Fiction Has to Tell Us
Sep 2, 2025
Zishuan Gan, a PhD student studying technology and death in Chinese science fiction, joins renowned author Liu Cixin, known for The Three-Body Problem, and Ari Heinrich, a professor of Chinese media. They delve into the cultural significance of Chinese sci-fi, examining how it mirrors societal changes and navigates issues like censorship. The discussion touches on the genre's impact on identity, exploring themes of queerness and gender roles, while highlighting the genre's potential to shape perceptions of the future amidst China's evolving landscape.
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Chinese Sci‑Fi Goes Global
- The Three-Body Problem's Netflix success signals global appetite for Chinese sci-fi.
- Liu Cixin's novel propelled a surge of sci-fi fandom and international recognition.
Hidden Verne Sparked A Career
- Liu Cixin found a hidden copy of Jules Verne under his parents' bed during the Cultural Revolution.
- That discovery sparked his lifelong fascination with imaginative, realistic worlds.
Modernization Fuels Sci‑Fi Growth
- Liu Cixin links science fiction booms to rapid national modernization.
- Rapid social change creates a 'futuristic feeling' that feeds sci‑fi creativity.