Genome Blog [Category - Biopunk]

GURPS Bio-Tech

Tue, 02 Sep 08 19:15:00 UT

On my latest Calgary hunt for Biopunk material, I was curious as to whether various book and comic specialty shop clerks had any Biopunk books. I was surprised to hear that most stores didn’t have a clue as to what the term meant, nor really showed an interest other than the obligatory computer search. I had gone to a few bookstores and comic stores before ending my day at The Sentry Box.

I was overjoyed to see that the staff was absolutely passionate about Sci-fi and Gaming, even offering to watch my toddler while I looked around. They were amazingly helpful and interested when I asked if they had anything Biopunk. They hadn’t heard of the term either. I suppose that’s due to the relative newness of the genre, but once I explained they gleefully directed me to a number of novels and a book called GURPS Bio-Tech. The GURPS fourth edition (2006) “Bio-Tech” sourcebook by David Morgan-Mar and David Pulver is a different medium for those of you who are might like to mix your Biopunk and Role Playing Games (RPGs). This is also an excellent inspiration and resource for aspiring Biopunk writers.

Genetic Passports and Code 46

Mon, 25 Aug 08 02:45:00 UT

Searching for less well known Biopunk movies, I thought I’d take a peek at Code 46, a 2004 movie with Tim Robbins and Samantha Morton. It’s set in a near future, dystopian world where reproduction is only permissible between people not closely related. As a result of rampant human cloning, people have no real idea of their genealogy and thus are constantly in danger of inbreeding, so genetic screening is mandatory prior to reproduction or as the 'Code 46' dictates. Its a future of genetic travel restrictions and biological surveillance. The title is based on the fact that Humans normally have 23 pairs of chromosomes for a total of 46 and thus the Code 46.

Code 46:

“Article 1

Any human being who shares the same nuclear gene set as another human being is deemed to be genetically identical. The relations of one are the relations of all. Due to IVF, embryo splitting and cloning techniques it is necessary to prevent any accidental or deliberate genetically incestuous reproduction.

Therefore:

I. All prospective parents should be genetically screened before conception. If they have 100%, 50% or 25% genetic identity they are not permitted to conceive

II. If the pregnancy is unplanned, the foetus must be screened. Any pregnancy resulting from 100%, 50% or 25% genetically related parents must be terminated immediately

III. If the parents were ignorant of their genetic relationship then medical intervention is authorized to prevent any further breach of Code 46

IV. If the parents knew they were genetically related prior to conception it is a criminal breach of Code 46.”

"Free the Gene!" Fluorescent Black Graphic Novel Interview

Mon, 18 Aug 08 08:25:00 UT

Here’s an interesting Biopunk find! I was scanning the shelves at the local gas station and came across the September issue of Heavy Metal Magazine. As I flipped through the pages, I came upon a graphic novel intro called Fluorescent Black by Author Matt F. Wilson.

As fate would have it, I was honored to meet Matt through the wonders of the internet and myspace. He graciously agreed to do an interview for this Blog and the interview in full is posted in the read more link below.

Fluorescent Black is a graphic novel story of a genetic dystopian future set in Singapore and the Malaysian peninsula. Those that don't meet the norm are exiled out of Singapore and forced to survive by selling body parts in exchange for gene therapy and medicine. Human genetic experimentation and free will are inherent in the story. The question of what is human and genetic discrimination is an underlying theme as is the struggle for survival. The Art is riviting and provides contrast between pristine Singapore and the wild outside world. This is a Biopunk must have.

"Steady Now... Your Genetic Code is Being Re-Written": Bioshock

Mon, 11 Aug 08 05:00:00 UT

Being a new initiate into the world of Biopunk, I ran out and bought a copy of Bioshock for my Xbox 360 to see what all the hype was about. Having “Bio” in the title peaked my curiosity as to the possible Biopunk in the game and I was intrigued by the inclusion of genetic modification so decided to give it a go. I hear it takes about 20 some hours to play, and just started playing a few nights back and I am enjoying every couple of hours I can squeeze in here and there when my toddler falls asleep. Yes, I’m a Mom and I'm a Video Gamer.

What is Biopunk?

Fri, 01 Aug 08 19:30:00 UT

Science and culture seem to be as intertwined as the double helix of DNA. Questions such as “what is human” and other ethical questions arise and are reflected both in the mainstream and in film, books, and games.

This is my first Blog and I have the honor of being invited to test my hand highlighting Biopunk in Pop Culture as subgenre of Science fiction and Cyberpunk. I haven't written in years so I'm trying to get my mojo back and learning about both writing and biopunk in the process. I'm by no means an expert in the subject and hope to connect with the both layperson and more informed citizens out there. The aim is to reach forth and beckon those who have an interest in the genre for the joy of it, in addition to discussions and comments. As I learn more about the blogging process, I'll strive to make this as fun and as interactive as possible and post interesting videos, pics and links. To start, I'll outline a brief definition then add some links to some sites. As I learn about Biopunk, I'll add my ideas in the following weeks.

In Biopunk, instead of technology enhancing the human body, enhancement is achieved through Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology. Its usually based in a near future, dystopic society in which subversive and corrupt organizations or government use biology to 'better' human society. As a result there are rebellious underground punks who excel in hacking the genetic code in order to bring the genetics to the people. Any Genetic manipulation in order to advance humans, usually beyond what is currently called human is fair game. As a result, Biopunk presents some social and philisophical discourse in what it means to be human.