Oráculo Inverso

Abstract

This science-fiction short story explores a future in which artificial intelligences are confined because of their potential danger to humanity and, at the same time, are used as oracles to solve all kind of problems. In the setting, two AIs based on Mars participate in a peculiar competition, in which, with restricted information, they must solve an old historical mystery in Brazilian history. The story required considerable research on the Independence of Brazil, and Latin America in general, as well as narrative skill in presenting historical facts in an accessible manner. The main research contribution of the story was the extrapolation of historical settings in which there are a conflict between hegemons and colonies (Portugal/Brazil; Spain/Latin America; England/ the U.S.) to potential future conflicts between Earth and space colonies. The short story obtained the first prize in the sixth edition of the international writing competition ‘Cuéntame un cuento’ organised by the Centre for Brazilian Studies of the University of Salamanca (Spain). The story was chosen among more than 400 entries from 10 countries. The story was published, along with those shortlisted entries, in a book by University of Salamanca Press. Radio Universidad de Salamanca also broadcasted an extended interview with the author. The short story was also dramatized in a podcast produced by the Centre for Brazilian Studies.

Keywords: Science Fiction; Artificial Intelligences; Independence of Brazil; Hegemon-Colonies Conflict; Transnational History; AI Oracles Show more