A Visionary Tale Of Survival And Technology
Andrew G. Berger discusses his novel THE SUPERFLARE, exploring AI’s impact, human resilience, and the ethical dilemmas of technology, while reflecting on personal values and the power of connection.
Andrew G. Berger is a storyteller at heart, a passion that has shaped both his personal and professional life. With a background in German Literature, Political Science, and History, and a home in Berlin shared with his wife and two children, Berger brings a unique perspective to his writing. His debut science fiction novel, THE SUPERFLARE, delves into the profound questions surrounding artificial intelligence, human resilience, and the fragility of our digital age.
In this thought-provoking interview, Berger reflects on the inspirations behind his work, the ethical dilemmas posed by AI, and the deeply human themes that drive his storytelling. From the contrasting journeys of his characters Julia and Winston to the broader societal implications of technological dependence, Berger offers a compelling exploration of what it means to be human in an increasingly automated world.
What inspired you to write THE SUPERFLARE, and how do you see the themes of artificial intelligence and survival resonating with current societal issues?
Our reliance on digital devices and artificial intelligence (AI) continues to grow at an astonishing rate, both as individuals and as a society. AI is no longer confined to niche applications—it permeates every aspect of our daily lives. If we call a customer service hotline, we often interact with AI before speaking to a human. AI algorithms influence critical decisions, such as granting loans or approving insurance applications. Even something as routine as verifying our identity online involves proving we’re not bots.
AI’s presence extends beyond the digital realm, infiltrating the physical world in remarkable ways. Autonomous vehicles are now a reality, with self-driving cars, trucks, and buses taking to the roads. Cutting-edge technology is even making inroads into the human body. AI-powered brain implants help restore lost abilities, and exoskeletons enhance physical capabilities, sometimes exceeding natural human limits. This progress raises profound questions about whether researchers aim to outpace evolution itself with their creations.
A study by Oxford University suggests a startling trajectory: AI could outperform humans in many tasks within the next decade, with a 50% chance of surpassing human capabilities in all domains within 45 years. Complete automation of human jobs could follow within 120 years, with some predicting this shift will happen even sooner in certain parts of the world.
Yet, as AI advances, the social fabric appears to fray. Smartphones dominate our attention, and many people struggle with loneliness—even young generations are not immune. The COVID-19 pandemic has only accelerated these trends, intensifying our dependence on technology and weakening human connection.
When I began writing THE SUPERFLARE several years ago, these thoughts loomed large in my mind. I wanted to explore a scenario where humanity is stripped of its technological crutches, forcing us to rely solely on our physical and mental capabilities. Through the character of Tron, an advanced superintelligence, I delved into how an AI—designed to surpass human intelligence—might behave when its very existence is threatened.
Can you share more about the character development of Julia and Winston? How do their backgrounds influence their actions and decisions throughout the story?
The contrasting backgrounds of Julia and Winston are pivotal to the story’s character-driven narrative. Julia, though 17, is physically underdeveloped due to years of isolation and medication administered by the AI. Her life within the confines of a fully digitized living cube shields her from the outside world until an EMP event shatters her reality. Stripped of her technological safety net, she faces a harsh, unfamiliar environment that demands resilience and adaptability.
This upheaval serves as a “second birth” for Julia. Her body, previously stunted by medication, begins to mature rapidly, introducing her to the complexities of hormones, survival, and first love. These transformations profoundly shape her character as she struggles to navigate both her external challenges and inner growth.
Winston, on the other hand, comes from a world untouched by digital technology. His upbringing is grounded in a community that values self-sufficiency and interpersonal relationships. When his path intersects with Julia’s, the clash of their vastly different worlds creates both tension and growth. Their evolving relationship, built on mutual understanding and love, becomes a central theme in the story, highlighting the power of connection in the face of adversity.
What message or warning do you hope to convey about the potential consequences of our reliance on technology?
The rapid evolution of technology and AI is akin to releasing a genie from a bottle—it’s impossible to reverse, but it demands careful oversight. Without vigilance, we risk losing control over the very tools we’ve created. Yet, this era of rapid technological advancement also presents an opportunity: it forces us to confront what it means to be human and to define the line that separates human intelligence from artificial intelligence.
In your view, what are the ethical implications of creating superintelligent AI like Tron? How should society approach the development of such technologies?
A year ago, I asked ChatGPT a similar question, and the response resonated with me:
“Yes, it is conceivable that artificial intelligences could one day act independently of the control and specifications of humans. This is one of the major ethical and security issues posed by artificial intelligence and its development. We must start thinking today about how we can ensure that artificial intelligences are used safely and responsibly to avoid negative impacts on society and individuals.”
As a father and a husband, how do your personal experiences and values shape the narratives and characters in your writing?
My life experiences and values inevitably influence my writing. Like anyone, I’ve faced personal crises, and those challenges have shaped my perspective. They’ve taught me the importance of growth, resilience, and the support of family and friends.
In THE SUPERFLARE, Winston embodies these values. While he questions authority during his journey of self-discovery, he also displays a deep sense of responsibility toward his community. This balance between individual growth and communal duty mirrors the challenges many of us face in real life.
Are there any themes or ideas you are exploring for your next writing project? How do you see your work evolving in the future?
Life is an endless source of inspiration. Wherever it leads, I’m excited to see how my work continues to evolve.