The Hierarchies by Ros AndersonMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
Review of "The Hierarchies" by Ros Anderson
In a world saturated with science fiction narratives, Ros Anderson's "The Hierarchies" stands out as a compelling exploration of technology's intersection with human nature. The novel masterfully blends the wonder of technological advancements with the grounded realities of human desires and flaws. Through the eyes of Sylv.ie, a humanoid pleasure doll, Anderson delves deep into themes of free will, consent, exploitation, and the often cruel tendencies of humanity.
Anderson's prose is deceptively simple, painting vivid images that come alive in the reader's mind. The pacing is impeccable, with each chapter serving a purpose, driving the narrative forward and compelling readers to turn the page. While it took me a few chapters to immerse myself fully, the journey was worth every moment of reflection and re-reading.
The character dynamics, especially between men and women, are both intriguing and unsettling. Women, whether born or created, are portrayed with depth and complexity, leaving room for interpretation and introspection. In contrast, the men, irrespective of their societal standing, are depicted with a base cruelty that intensifies with age and waning potency.
Drawing parallels to the TV series "Humans," "The Hierarchies" offers a fresh perspective on the age-old debate of sentience and the ethical implications of creating life. While comparisons to iconic works like Asimov's Robot series might be tempting, Anderson's novel deserves to be celebrated in its own right, reflecting the unique cultural and technological nuances of our time.
I would wholeheartedly recommend "The Hierarchies" to any sci-fi enthusiast and believe it holds particular resonance for women and feminists. However, given its mature themes, it might not be suitable for younger readers.
Rating: 4.95/5 stars
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