Speculative Orientalism: Asian Religions in New Wave Science Fiction (Hardcover) (ISBN-13: 9781350447899)

Examining the works of prominent New Wave science fiction authors from the 1950-1960s, Sang-Keun Yoo highlights the underexplored connection between American science fiction and Asian religions, such as Taoism, Buddhism, and Hinduism.The book considers how the major world wars of the 20th century-Second World War, the Cold War, and the Vietnam War- repositioned Asian culture in relation to the science fiction genre in the period.

Underpinning this study, Sang-Keun Yoo argues that "Speculative Orientalism" emerged in American science fiction during the 1950s and 60s. This concept adopted various aspects of Asian religions to envision alternative worlds, unburdened by the constraints of colonialism, totalitarianism, racism, and sexism present in contemporary American society.

Bringing fresh perspectives to the works of William S. Burroughs, Philip K. Dick, Ursula K. Le Guin and Samuel R. Delany, this book offers an insightful examination of the role of Asian religions in American science fiction and their impact on the genre's history.

Author: Sang-Keun Yoo
ISBN-10: 1350447897
ISBN-13: 9781350447899
Publisher: Bloomsbury Academic
Language: English
Published: 09/18/2025
Pages: 248
Format: Hardcover
Weight: 1.16lbs
Size: 9.21h x 6.14w x 0.63d