It should be noted (for those new to this) that the term ‘Cyberpunk’ is derivative of the term ‘cyberspace’, not ‘cyborg’. Cyborgs do occasionally appear in cyberpunk novels, as do other forms of synthetic life, and the synthesis of biological life with technology is a recurring theme, but the focus of cyberpunk is more on information technologies: networks, computers, being able to plug oneself directly into virtual environments by whatever means – that sort of thing. An example would be the ‘Tron’ movies. Both of them. Most of the action is contained within a virtual environment Another popular example of cyberpunk is the ‘Matrix’ series of movies. Technically most of the movies took place in cyberspace, not out in the ‘real’ world. I still think that ‘the matrix’ establishes a great premise for arguing in favour of existentialism – but that’s for another time.
Finally: a quote that may help clarify things: “Cyberpunk literature, in general, deals with marginalized people in technologically-enhanced cultural ‘systems’. In cyberpunk stories’ settings, there is usually a ‘system’ which dominates the lives of most ‘ordinary’ people, be it an oppressive government, a group of large, paternalistic corporations, or a fundamentalist religion. These systems are enhanced by certain technologies (today advancing at a rate that is bewildering to most people), particularly ‘information technology’ (computers, the mass media), making the system better at keeping those within it inside it. Often this technological system extends into its human ‘components’ as well, via brain implants, prosthetic limbs, cloned or genetically engineered organs, etc. Humans themselves become part of ‘the Machine’. This is the ‘cyber’ aspect of cyberpunk. However, in any cultural system, there are always those who live on its margins, on ‘the Edge’: criminals, outcasts, visionaries, or those who simply want freedom for its own sake. Cyberpunk literature focuses on these people, and often on how they turn the system’s technological tools to their own ends. This is the ‘punk’ aspect of cyberpunk.” Erich Schneider of ‘The Cyberpunk Project’.
Here are a few examples of Cyberpunk books:
1. Neuromancer
2. Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?
3. Mind Machines
4. The Stars My Destination
5. Boneshaker
6. …And, so on!
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