How does "The Peripheral" address issues of technology and society?

William Gibson’s novel "The Peripheral" explores the impact of technology on society, both in the present and the future. Set in two different eras, the book examines the consequences of the use of advanced technologies on various social issues, including power dynamics, class inequality, and privacy.

The novel is set in two different timelines: one in a near-future dystopian world, and the other in a distant future where advanced technologies have completely transformed society. In both timelines, technology is a central theme and is shown to have both positive and negative consequences.

In the near-future timeline, one of the main focuses is a game that is used for political manipulation and espionage. The game is played by people who control avatars, and it is used to gather information and influence political decisions, illustrating the power dynamics inherent in technologies.

Meanwhile, in the distant future, holographic technology and time travel have led to a complete restructuring of society. The wealthy elite live in isolated communities where they enjoy the benefits of advanced technology, while the rest of humanity is left to suffer in poverty and social isolation. This highlights the dangers of technology when it is controlled by a small group of people who have access to its benefits.

In conclusion, "The Peripheral" is a thought-provoking exploration of how technology can shape society and the consequences that emerge from its use.