Speculative Orientalism : Asian Religions in New Wave Science Fiction - Sang-Keun Yoo

Speculative Orientalism

Asian Religions in New Wave Science Fiction

By: Sang-Keun Yoo, Alana Vincent (Editor), Nina Fischer (Editor)

Hardcover | 18 September 2025

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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 centuryâ"Second World War, the Cold War, and the Vietnam Warâ" repositioned Asian culture in relation to the science fiction genre in the period.

Underpinning this study, Sang-Keun Yoo argues that âSpeculative Orientalismâ 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.

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