Science fiction has always been a genre that explores the possibilities of the future, and one of the most fascinating areas of exploration is the field of genetic engineering. In recent years, many science fiction novels have tackled the ethical and moral dilemmas surrounding genetic engineering, as well as the potential consequences of tampering with the very building blocks of life. Another common theme in science fiction is the exploration of relationships and human behavior, including the topic of infidelity. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the best science fiction novels that deal with genetic engineering and infidelity.
The Windup Girl by Paolo Bacigalupi: The Windup Girl is a science fiction novel that explores the ethical and moral dilemmas surrounding genetic engineering. The novel is set in a future Thailand where bioengineering has been used to create new species of animals and plants. The story follows the exploits of a windup girl, a genetically engineered being designed to be the perfect companion, as she navigates a world where she is both valued and reviled. The novel also explores the theme of infidelity, as many of the characters struggle with their relationships and their sense of duty to their partners.
The Children of Men by P.D. James: The Children of Men is a science fiction novel that explores the consequences of a world where humans are no longer able to have children. The novel is set in a future England where the last human child has been born and society is on the brink of collapse. The story follows the journey of a man named Theo as he tries to protect the first pregnant woman in over twenty years. Along the way, he grapples with his own feelings of infidelity and betrayal, as well as the moral and ethical implications of genetic engineering.
The First Fifteen Lives of Harry August by Claire North: The First Fifteen Lives of Harry August is a science fiction novel that explores the idea of immortality through genetic engineering. The novel follows the life of Harry August, a man who is able to live his life over and over again, retaining all of his memories from previous lives. As Harry navigates the twists and turns of his existence, he grapples with questions of love, loyalty, and infidelity, as he tries to reconcile his desire for human connection with his unique position in the world.
The Year of the Flood by Margaret Atwood: The Year of the Flood is a science fiction novel that explores the dangers of genetic engineering and its impact on human society. The novel is set in a future world ravaged by environmental catastrophe and follows the lives of two women, Toby and Ren, who are trying to survive in a world where corporations have taken over and genetic engineering has run amok. Along the way, the characters grapple with issues of love, loyalty, and infidelity, as they try to navigate a world that is rapidly changing and becoming more and more dangerous.
Science fiction novels that explore the themes of genetic engineering and infidelity are some of the most thought-provoking and engaging works in the genre. The Windup Girl, The Children of Men, The First Fifteen Lives of Harry August, and The Year of the Flood are just a few examples of the many great science fiction novels that tackle these themes in unique and compelling ways. Whether you’re interested in exploring the ethical and moral dilemmas surrounding genetic engineering, or the complexities of human relationships and behavior, these novels offer a fascinating glimpse into the possibilities of the future.
If you enjoy reading books that examine the themes discussed above, consider The Phoenix Project (linked below). Book 1 in the series is free.
