Microbadges: 
Cyberpunk is science fiction focused on advanced science such as cybernetics that is usually set in post-industrial dystopias or in a near-future rather than far-future Earth. Common elements include breakdown or radical change in society, conflict among hackers, artificial intelligence, mega-corporations, and the use or misuse of technology in ways never anticipated by its creators. The Neon Leviathan is a term used to describe the leviathan like mega-corporations that consume all, including people and their freedom.
Cyberpunk writers tend to describe an often nihilistic underground side of an electronic society. The genre's vision of a troubled future is often called the antithesis of the generally utopian visions of the future popular in the 1940s and 1950s. Much of the action takes place online, in cyberspace, blurring the line between actual and virtual reality. Cyberpunk is often set in urbanized, artificial landscapes, and "city lights, receding" as one of the metaphors for cyberspace and virtual reality. The cityscapes of Hong Kong and Japan have had major influences in the urban backgrounds, ambiance and settings in many cyberpunk works. The strange and chaotic streets where "old and new exist in confusing relationships", coupled with their disorganized hyper-urbanization and breakdown in traditional urban planning fits many of the genres themes. Cyberpunk can be intended to disquiet readers and call them to action. It often expresses a sense of rebellion, suggesting that one could describe it as a type of cultural revolution in science fiction.
Sub-themes
|
|
Biopunk |
Synthetic biology and biotechnology, typically focusing on the potential dangers to genetic engineering and enhancement. Generally depicts near-future unintended consequences of the biotechnology revolution following the discovery of recombinant DNA. |
Example:
|
|
Tech-Noir / Cyber-Noir |
Combines elements of noir and cyberpunk. |
Example:
|