Technology has become a need. It shapes the way you live, work, and think. But what happens when it goes too far? From rogue AI to cyber warfare, this theme explores the fine line between progress and disaster.
What Is Man vs. Technology?
Man vs. technology is an external conflict where a character struggles against technological forces. This could mean battling robots, resisting a dystopian system, or even questioning the morality of artificial intelligence.
This type of conflict often explores big questions: What happens when technology surpasses human control? Is progress always good? Where do you draw the line between man and machine?
Man vs. technology is common in science fiction, thrillers, cyberpunk, and dystopian fiction, but you can find it in almost any genre.
Key Elements of a Man vs. Technology Story
A strong man vs. technology story needs more than just machines running wild or AI gaining sentience. Focus on these elements:
A Technological Adversary
The core of this conflict is a technological force that challenges the protagonist. This adversary can take many forms:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Robots and Machines
- Surveillance and Control
- Cyberwarfare and Hacking
- Scientific and Medical Advancements
- Environmental Technology Gone Wrong
Your technological force doesn’t have to be evil. Sometimes, it is just following its programming or responding to human flaws in unexpected ways.
A Human Struggle
Equally at the heart of this struggle is a human protagonist who resists, questions, or suffers because of technology.
Are they a rebel fighting against an oppressive system? A scientist grappling with the consequences of their creation? Or an everyday person caught in a high-tech nightmare?
Impact of Technology
Technology doesn’t just affect individuals—it reshapes entire societies. Your story should show how people react to the technological force.
Some characters might see the technology as revolutionary, while others view it as a threat. Think of how each technological element changes the lives and perspectives of your world and its characters.
Questions on Progress
At the heart of your story should be a question about technology’s role in society. Some common ones include:
- Do we control technology, or does it control us?
- Is convenience worth losing privacy?
- Should we enhance humans with technology?
- Should we place limits on technological progress?
- What happens when machines start thinking for themselves?
Unintended Consequences
Many great man vs. technology stories explore how good intentions (or lack thereof) lead to disaster. Show both the benefits and risks of technology. Explore how characters deal with these unintended results.
Examples of Man vs. Technology in Literature, TV, and Film
A man vs. technology conflict can take many forms, from AI gone rogue to oppressive surveillance systems. Here are some of the most notable examples across literature, television, and film:
I, Robot by Isaac Asimov
A collection of stories exploring the interactions between humans and robots governed by Asimov’s famous Three Laws of Robotics.
Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? by Philip K. Dick
Rick Decard is hired to “retire” (eliminate) rogue androids that are nearly indistinguishable from humans.
The Circle by Dave Eggers
Mae Holland lands a job at The Circle, a powerful tech company promoting total transparency. Soon, she discovers the dark side of constant surveillance and its invasive consequences.
Ex Machina
A programmer is invited to test Ava, a humanoid AI. As he interacts with her, he begins to question whether he is evaluating Ava—or if she is manipulating him.
Her
A lonely writer falls in love with an AI operating system, Samantha. As their relationship deepens, he questions his own emotional needs.
Black Mirror
Each episode explores a different scenario where technology disrupts society or individual lives, often with disturbing consequences.
Person of Interest
A reclusive billionaire programmer creates an AI that can predict crimes before they happen and enlists a former CIA operative to stop them.
How to Write a Man vs. Technology Story
Here are some essential tips to help you write a compelling man vs. technology story:
Make the Technology Plausible
Even in sci-fi or dystopian settings, ground your technology in logic. How does it work? What are its limitations?
Consider real-world advancements—AI, automation, and genetic engineering are already reshaping society. Take these current technologies and push them just a little further into the future.
At a minimum, your tech should work within the story’s logic.
Show How Technology Affects Society
How does technology shape society and its individuals? Show both large (government control, economic shifts) and small-scale effects (vocabulary, culture).
Technology should always feel present in the story. It’s not just an added convenience, but a way of life.
Show the Pros and Cons of Technology
Avoid making technology purely evil or purely good. The best stories show both its benefits and risks.
Why did people create this technology? What problem was it meant to solve? What went wrong? Consider different perspectives and let characters debate on its morality.
Explore Ethical Dilemmas
Ask the tough questions and let your characters wrestle with these dilemmas. The answers should not be easy and clear-cut.
Decide if you want your ending to be a warning, a hopeful vision, or something in between. Maybe even consider an open-ended conclusion that leaves your readers questioning the future.
Use Technology as a Mirror
Show what technology reveals about humans. Make the conflict a result of human nature, whether by ambition, greed, fear, or desperation.
Is the real problem the technology itself, or the people using it? Maybe Her isn’t about AI taking over—maybe its about human loneliness in a digital world.
Final Thoughts
Technology itself is neither good nor evil—its impact depends on how people use it. A strong man vs. technology story goes beyond machines, challenging readers to reflect on humanity and its choices.
These stories make you question the present and worry about the future. What kind of world has humanity built, and what awaits the next generation?
What’s your favorite man vs. technology story? Share your thoughts below!
If you enjoyed this post, then you might also like:
- Types of Conflict in Literature: How to Challenge Your Characters
- Sci-Fi Technology: 10 Predictions That Came True
- 16 Cyberpunk Books for Technology Fans
Cole is a blog writer and aspiring novelist. He has a degree in Communications and is an advocate of media and information literacy and responsible media practices. Aside from his interest in technology, crafts, and food, he’s also your typical science fiction and fantasy junkie, spending most of his free time reading through an ever-growing to-be-read list. It’s either that or procrastinating over actually writing his book. Wish him luck!
