An Inquiry into Cultural Value Systems and Conflicts in Science Fiction: Exploring Spiral Dynamics in Foundation
An Inquiry into Cultural Value Systems and Conflicts in Science Fiction: Exploring Spiral Dynamics in Foundation

Summary/Abstract: Science fiction narratives illuminate the human condition by estranging us from our perception of reality and presenting authentic, imaginative frameworks. This article examines how the television series Foundation (Apple TV+, 2021-) approaches human value systems and emerging conflicts from a Spiral Dynamics perspective, emphasizing the series’ immense worth in making sense of the contemporary world. Spiral Dynamics is a scientific model that describes the development of human beliefs, ideals, and values on a deep fundamental level. Foundation offers nuanced representations of discrepancies between different value systems and highlights the strengths and weaknesses of multiple stages. Thus, the series provides an opportunity to contemplate the conflict between the self-righteous morality of the West and the radicalized politics of tyrannical and/or religious regimes. Foundation scrutinizes the validity and the hegemony of science and rational thinking (Galactic Empire representing stage Orange) and juxtaposes it with various lower and higher stages. Red kingdoms (Anacreon and Thespis) and Blue/Purple religions (Luminism and Seer Church) are in conflict with each other and the Empire. Psychohistory, as a stage Yellow scientific device (and also the ‘novum’ of the series), advances holistic solutions to conflicts; it emphasizes that all perspectives are partial and there are alternative ways to integrate them. Consequently, this article aims to address how a science fiction saga could ‘cognitively map’ ongoing cultural conflicts. Foundation reflects planetary concerns, provides a complementary perspective on cultural values and conflicts, and paves a way for multi-perspectival, ‘conscious’ politics.

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