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How to recognize a dystopia - Alex Gendler

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The genre of dystopia – the ‘not good place’– has captured the imaginations of artists and audiences alike for centuries. But why do we bother with all this pessimism? Alex Gendler explains how dystopias act as cautionary tales– not about some particular government or technology, but the very idea that humanity can be molded into an ideal shape.

What was a major difference between dystopian fiction of the 19th century and the 20th?

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About TED-Ed Animations

TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »

Meet The Creators

  • Educator Alex Gendler
  • Director Jeremiah Dickey
  • Composer Stephen LaRosa
  • Sound Designer Stephen LaRosa
  • Narrator Addison Anderson

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