English Language and Literature Commons^™

“What Have They Done To You Now, Tally?” Post-Posthuman Heroine Vs Transhumanist Scientist In The International Young Adult Series Uglies, Petros Panaou Dr

Petros Panaou

This article explores issues of importance to contemporary and future youths, scientists, and societies, as they are expressed in the first three books of the Uglies series, by Scott Westerfeld. A critical approach to transhumanist thought informs an analysis of the conflict between Dr. Cable, a transhumanist scientist, and Tally, the “post-posthuman” adolescent protagonist. This exploration demonstrates how Scott Westerfeld’s story, and perhaps other posthuman narratives, can engage us in useful conversations about what it means to be human, the coming of the posthuman age, and the roles of science and technology in it.