What’s most interesting about Bradbury’s short story is presents the future as neither a dystopian or utopia.
Ian Malcolm, succinctly articulates this tension – science is about the “could” and does not consider the “should.” Science fiction has then an either-or/zero-sum approach to technological advancement. A great example of this comes in Jurassic Park (1996): in a twist on the Frankenstein-motif, scientist genetically resurrect dinosaurs, who ultimately take over the theme park.
Much of science fiction has been devoted to problematizing our belief that technology is inherently beneficial to humanity. In “August 2026: There Will Come Soft Rains,” Ray Bradbury reveals the danger in my new morning routine. I have to confess, the most luxurious, decadent purchase I have made in the past 3 years has been an automatic grind-and-brew coffee maker! Being able to walk downstairs smelling the freshly brewed coffee and having my cup ready has transformed my mornings.
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