In a world where technology and the unknown intertwine, can we find salvation from a dystopian future? This is the intriguing question posed by author Daniel H. Wilson in his latest novel, Hole in the Sky. Wilson, a robotics PhD, delves into the complex relationship between science and faith, exploring how our understanding of technology can blur the lines between magic and reality.
With a background in apocalyptic fiction, Wilson's work often revolves around humanity's struggle with machines and the potential threats they pose. His realistic and detailed depictions of techno-risks have even led to his involvement in threat forecasting for the US military, analyzing the potential misuse of various technologies. But Hole in the Sky takes a different approach, weaving together a tapestry of current and future tech concepts with Native American folklore inspired by Wilson's Cherokee heritage.
The novel explores the idea that when human technologies become indistinguishable from magic, we must respect the limits of our knowledge. Wilson's characters navigate a world where unidentified flying objects, wearables with godlike powers, and interstellar space travel are all part of the narrative. One character, known as the Man Downstairs or MD, embodies a shamanic role, working with science but relying on faith and belief from those around him.
Wilson intentionally plays with the tension between science and faith, presenting three main characters with different perspectives on the unknown. There's the soldier who wants to destroy it, the scientist who aims to understand and exploit it, and the native character who simply lives with it. Through these characters, Wilson highlights the importance of embracing uncertainty and the need for diverse perspectives to navigate and survive the unknown.
When asked about his thoughts on the recent surge of Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena (UAPs) in the news, Wilson shares his evolving perspective. Initially skeptical, his views changed after attending the Aspen Security Conference and hearing General Glenn VanHerck's admission that these phenomena are real and unknown. Wilson believes it's time to rethink alien invasion stories, moving beyond colonial fear projections and exploring different cultural lenses.
In his writing, Wilson often explores the fusion of humans with technology, raising questions about our humanity and control. One character in Hole in the Sky slowly dissociates from humanity, becoming increasingly entangled with her technology. Wilson ponders whether, as we upgrade ourselves with technology, we remain human and in control. He suggests that as long as we don't tamper too much with the brain, we retain our humanity, but he also questions the nature of our embodiment and the biological imperatives that define us as humans.
Wilson's exploration of Indigenous technology is a key aspect of the novel. He highlights the advanced technological knowledge of Native people, often overlooked because it doesn't fit Western ideas of technology. As the story progresses, the native character, Jim, realizes that the entity they encounter is a form of Indigenous technology, challenging our perceptions of what technology truly is.
When it comes to his biggest global apocalyptic concerns, Wilson expresses worry about the increasing surveillance state and the funneling of wealth from the less fortunate to the wealthy. He sees a dystopian future where AI and social media are used to exploit data from everyday people, with humanoid robots collecting data and wearables becoming a norm. Wilson encourages a simple act of rebellion: taking a walk in the woods without any data-generating devices, a small step towards resisting the surveillance society he fears.
Hole in the Sky is a thought-provoking novel that challenges our perceptions of technology, faith, and the unknown. It invites readers to consider the limits of our knowledge and the importance of diverse perspectives in navigating an uncertain future. Wilson's unique blend of science, fiction, and Indigenous folklore creates a captivating narrative that leaves readers with much to ponder.
What are your thoughts on Wilson's exploration of these themes? Do you agree with his concerns about the surveillance state and the potential impact of AI and social media? Share your thoughts and let's spark a discussion on these thought-provoking ideas!
