An Obsession with Electric Sheep: Examining a Concept in Science Fiction

Abstract

In order to contextualize the work of science fiction novelist Philip K. Dick, I explore a concept that separates the imposed reality of society from the individuals’ interpretation of reality; this I call “layered reality.” Layered reality also influences the spectator to question the way in which he/she views society. The novel Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? engages themes of humanity, capitalism, and religion, which are central to Dick’s work in science fiction. Blade Runner, a film adaptation of Dick’s novel by Ridley Scott, examines these themes further through a visual aesthetic focusing on presenting the spectator with a hyperrealistic environment in which the themes are negotiated interchangeably. Through close reading and analysis of Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?, and Blade Runner, as well as literature that looks at the themes of Dick’s work and science fiction as a whole, I use layered reality to understand a possible message behind the novel and how the film allegorizes and presents that message to a wider audience.