[boris8826]

   One-line summary: Black Mirror science fiction series shows dangers of misuse of technology.

The makers of this science fiction series appear to be greatly concerned about consequences of high technology, particularly social networking and neuroscience (integrating a computer with a brain).

However, the distopian societies portrayed in each episode (the episodes are independent, like The Twilight Zone) are a result of collectivism and not technology. But it would take an Objectivist to see it this way. In contrast, the show ascribes misuse of technology to capitalism and the profit motive to provide convenient services. 

Nevertheless, I have been fascinated by each of the episodes, because of genius science fiction twists. I await with anticipation the next 6 episodes to come out.

Season 3 is available on Netflix. 

/sb

[Quetzal]

Re: Boris Reitman’s post 99804 of 11/12/16

   One-line summary: I agree.

The show is philosophically bankrupt, but high production values, good acting and thrilling twists have made it a worthwhile watch for me at least. Since it’s an anthology series, the episodes vary on how much you’ll end up rolling your eyes at the underlying premises. I couldn’t wholeheartedly recommend it, but if you’re someone like me who watches a LOT of TV and is scraping the bottom of the barrel for new shows, it’s worth seeing if it appeals to you.

*sb

[AmeshAdalja]

  One-line summary: Black Mirror cleverly focuses on the personal and societal dilemmas technology presents in a philosophical manner.

Like Boris Reitman and Elizabeth Morran, I found Black Mirror to be an interesting viewing experience. Though most of the episodes portray humanity malevolently, a few of the episodes do not (“Be Right Back” and “San Junipero”). In general, I would say that the theme of the series, as evidenced by its title, is how technology can be used for good or bad and those uses are merely a mirrored reflection of the humans employing the technology for whatever uses they choose.

As a whole, the series is very well done esthetically and the quality of the plots and acting is definitely above average.

While I totally disagree with the view of humanity the series presents, the desire to intellectually and dramatically explore the philosophical implications that certain technological innovations engender is the primary value.

I can only imagine how good the series might be if it had better philosophical premises.

/sb

[boris8826]

Re: Amesh Adalja’s post 116480 of 11/25/16

I found the “Men Against Fire” episode of season 3 to be the most meaningful to me. I don’t want to reveal the twist in the plot by describing it any further. 

Also, season 4 of Black Mirror is out on Netflix. I watched the first two episodes and enjoyed them. The first was a creative twist on Star Trek.

/sb

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