Memories and Mourning: Exploring Robot Memory and Post-human Imagination in After Yang

Abstract: The science fiction film After Yang delves into the emotional transformation experienced by a family following the demise of a highly empathetic and memory-endowed "cultural robot." In the movie, robots with human-like emotions and recollections transcend their status as disposable and replaceable commodities, instead becoming genuine companion species intricately involved in human lives. Through the enduring nature of memory and ancient mourning rituals, the film challenges anthropocentrism, human enhancement technologies, and biopolitics, while affirming and respecting post-human intelligent life. It also prompts reflection on life and redemption for those rigidly adhering to technological optimism yet grappling with loneliness and alienation. The film calls for a more open-minded approach to post-human life, where “companion species” that once aided humans in labor and companionship are no longer disposable or interchangeable products, but vibrant beings with emotions and memories akin to our own. Acknowledging, respecting, and mourning these lives is a redemption for those in post-industrial society who experience loneliness and alienation. Keywords: After Yang; Memory; Mourning; Robots; Post-human. Title: Memories and Mourning: Exploring Robot Memory and Post-human Imagination in After Yang Author: Changli Li International Journal of Social Science and Humanities Research ISSN 2348-3156 (Print), ISSN 2348-3164 (online) Vol. 12, Issue 3, July 2024 - September 2024 Page No: 177-181 Research Publish Journals Website: www.researchpublish.com Published Date: 10-August-2024 DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.13292033 Paper Download Link (Source) https://www.researchpublish.com/papers/memories-and-mourning-exploring-robot-memory-and-post-human-imagination-in-after-yang