Where do we draw the line between technology development and our morality? This is an old question that sci-fi works often discuss. Writers have been asking this ever since Mary Shelley invented science fiction with Frankenstein at the age of 18. Two hundred years later, science fiction plays a big role in the entertainment industry today. And the question seems to grow more and more important in the fast-changing world. Netflix’s renowned sci-fi series Black Mirror is a show I adore recently. It not only offers compelling plots but also discusses moral dilemmas that derive from technology. It is definitely a must-watch for me.

        At first glance, the title Black Mirror might seem strange. A mirror can be described as reflective, transparent, or silver. How can it be black? However, you will find that you are more familiar with it than you think. I assume your phone is within reach of you whenever or wherever you’re reading this. Hold it in your hand and make sure the screen is off. Now, stare at it for five seconds. Did you see your reflection staring back at you from the “black mirror”? Nowadays, we see black mirrors everywhere: the TVs and computer screens in our homes, the driving recorders in our cars, and of course the smartphones in our palms. Since these gadgets have become so common, some people are not even aware that they’re addicted to them. “If technology is a drug – and it does feel like a drug – then what, precisely, are the side-effects? This area – between delight and discomfort – is where Black Mirror is set,” said the screenwriter Charlie Brooker.

        This is not the kind of sci-fi show that focuses on special effects. It’s more about technology is a double-edged sword. It can benefit us, but it can also hurt us if we become selfish and misuse it. Thus, we need to be moral. Although each episode is an individual story, there are some recurring themes. They include AI, surveillance, virtual reality, and eye implants, to name a few. My favorite episode is called White Christmas. I love the story and the way it is told. It’s engaging and thrilling, and I just wanted to know what’s going to happen next. I also pondered on the themes and the dilemmas that are discussed after watching it. I just pondered and even read reviews online. Then, I pondered more. To be honest, I still haven’t found a satisfying answer, but I think this is why the episode is so memorable to me.