News culture The science fiction universe of Dune is like no other: The Prophecy series explains why AI is banned
After the success of the films directed by Denis Villeneuve, the Dune universe expands with Prophecy. The series explores the origins of the Bene Gesserit and the consequences of the Machine War.
A science fiction universe without technology
After two successes in the cinema thanks to the production of Denis Villeneuvethe Dune saga has finally found its place. It has to be said that previous attempts at adaptation had left a bitter aftertaste among fans of the universe. This time around, nothing seems to be able to displace that sci-fi license, which should be welcome a third film to complete a trilogy. A spin-off in the form of a series, Dune: Prophecy, is now planned. This show is set 100 years before the adventures of Paul Atreides and follows the sisterhood of Well donea highly influential group in galactic geopolitics whose role shapes Arrakis. The series also takes place in the context of a key event in the universe of Frank Herbert : The War of the Machines. Therefore, any advanced technology, such as artificial intelligence, is considered an enemy.
AI vs. humanity
In the Dune universe, where spaceships are plentiful and mining technologies are advanced, one might think that machines are an integral part of this ecosystem. However, it is exactly the opposite. In Dune: Prophecy, the world barely recovers from the devastation the war of the machines. This uprising is also mentioned as a reminder Jihad ButlerienIt was a huge uprising against AI and the thinking machines that had enslaved humanity. After a century of conflict, AIs were destroyed and the creation of machines with human minds was banned. At that time, people preferred to develop defense methods from before the computer era, from what we might call an “ancient future.”
Here's how to do it, in Dune: ProphecyThe mere sight of a small robot lizard is enough to terrify the characters. As the team behind the series explains, artificial intelligence is seen as something that “disrupts the harmony and what they have worked so hard on.” In return, the show takes the time to focus on humanity and the inhabitants of each kingdom, well beyond Arrakis. “It's about power, politics, but above all about facing your fears,” summarize the creators. If you also want to follow this universe, Dune Prophecy is available on HBO Max or on Amazon Prime Video with a premium subscription. The show has been broadcast since November 18th with one episode per week.
