J
John Brunner
British author of science fiction novels and stories.
The Shockwave Rider
Synopsis
This 1975 book pretty much nailed the contradictions inherent in global networking, long before the network was created. It's full of wiretapping spooks, genius kids, networked churches, fake identities, network worms, encryption, nonprofits that outfox the spooks to help society, the works.
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Characters
Frequently asked questions
Does The Shockwave Rider have a film or TV adaptation?
The novel served as a significant inspiration for the 1995 film Hackers, particularly in its exploration of cyberculture and the concept of information as power. While not a direct adaptation, the influence is notable in the film's themes and portrayal of digital rebellion.
What is the significance of The Shockwave Rider in science fiction?
This book is widely recognized for coining the term 'worm' in the context of computer programs that replicate themselves across networks, predating its common usage in cybersecurity. It also explores prescient themes of data havens, digital privacy, and the societal impact of ubiquitous information networks.
Is The Shockwave Rider connected to other works by John Brunner?
While it shares thematic concerns with Brunner's other dystopian science fiction novels, particularly regarding societal control and technological impact, The Shockwave Rider is a standalone narrative. It does not feature characters or plotlines that directly continue in his other books.