Chinese Science Fiction and Artificial Intelligence: A Study on Hao Jingfang's Mirror of Man

Abstract

Chinese science fiction is gaining unprecedented attention, thanks to the contributions of Liu Cixin ((sic)(sic)(sic)) and Hao Jingfang((sic)(sic)(sic)). Liu Cixin, the first Asian to win the Hugo Award in 2015, is known for his hard science fiction with rigorous scientific foundations and cosmic settings. Hao Jingfang, who won the same award in 2016, writes soft science fiction exploring philosophical themes and human emotions, making her works deeply thought-provoking. This study focuses on Hao Jingfang's short story collection Mirror of Man(<<(sic)(sic)(sic)(sic)>>), which examines the relationship between artificial intelligence (AI) and humanity. It raises diverse questions and offers varied perspectives, portraying AI both as a potential threat and a co-evolving partner. The stories prompt readers to explore their own answers to these questions, as AI is already deeply integrated into daily life. Mirror of Man is thus no longer merely "science fiction" it reflects the contemporary reality of ethical and societal challenges brought by rapidly advancing technology.