Techno-thriller

Techno-thriller

A techno-thriller is a hybrid genre drawing from science fiction, thriller, and espionage. It is characterized by a high degree of scientific or technical detail, or by a specific technology or technologies driving the plot.

Overview

Techno-thrillers focus on detailed descriptions of technology and its application. While the level of scientific detail is comparable to that of hard science fiction, the genre is distinct in that it focuses on the technology of the present or near future, rather than speculative or future technology. The technology or science involved is usually real and within the realm of possibility, if not already in existence.

History

The techno-thriller genre originated in the late 20th century, with authors such as Michael Crichton and Tom Clancy often cited as pioneers of the genre. Their works, such as Jurassic Park and The Hunt for Red October, respectively, combined elements of science, technology, and suspense to create a new type of thriller.

Characteristics

Techno-thrillers often involve a race against time, with the protagonists working to prevent a disaster, often on a global scale. The technology involved is usually cutting-edge or futuristic, and is often central to the plot. This can include everything from artificial intelligence and cybernetics to biotechnology and nanotechnology.

Notable Authors and Works

In addition to Crichton and Clancy, notable authors in the techno-thriller genre include Daniel Suarez, known for his Daemon series, and Neal Stephenson, author of Snow Crash. Other notable works in the genre include The Andromeda Strain by Crichton, Red Storm Rising by Clancy, and Prey by Crichton.

See Also

• Science fiction
• Thriller (genre)
• Espionage
• Hard science fiction

References

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