Cyberpunk is a subgenre of science fiction that typically features a dystopian society characterized by advanced technology, particularly in the realm of information technology. The genre often focuses on the relationship between humans and technology, exploring themes such as artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and the social implications of technology.
The term "cyberpunk" originated in the 1980s, and many of the genre's key works were published during this time. These works often depicted a bleak, urban landscape of the future, where corporations wielded immense power and individuals were often oppressed or marginalized.
One of the defining features of cyberpunk is the use of "cyberspace," a virtual reality realm that characters can enter and interact with through the use of advanced technology. Cyberpunk also frequently explores themes of rebellion against authority, as characters fight against powerful corporations and governments.
Some of the most famous examples of cyberpunk include William Gibson's Neuromancer, Ridley Scott's Blade Runner, and the video game series Deus Ex.