The Posthuman Dystopia: Algorithmic Control and the Erosion of Memory in Saudi Science Fiction, a Case Study of Al-Otaibi's Today's Shelf

Abstract

This study examines posthumanism in modern Saudi fiction, focusing on Najwa Al-Otaibi’s novel Raf al-Yawm (Shelf of Today, 2022). It looks at how the novel represents the effects of technology on human identity, memory, social relationships, and ethical responsibilities in a near-future dystopian world. A qualitative approach is used, blending close reading with recent literature on Saudi and Arabic fiction. The research identifies key posthuman themes in the novel, such as the decline of personal memory, algorithmic control of behavior, commodification of emotions, and the weakening of individual agency. The findings show that the novel portrays a complex posthuman dystopia where human experience is closely tied to artificial intelligence and digital systems, raising issues about authenticity, autonomy, and morality. Furthermore, the narrative illustrates how Saudi fiction interacts with global posthuman issues while reflecting specific cultural views on social norms, ethics, and the links between humans and machines. The study concludes that Raf al-Yawm highlights the transformative effects of technology on human life and situates Saudi literature in broader conversations about identity, ethics, and governance related to technology. This research adds to the growing field that investigates posthumanist themes in Arabic literature, shedding light on how modern writers respond to the social and ethical challenges brought on by rapid technological changes.