Abstract:
Hive minds are a unique thing. In terms of science fiction, the definition of a hive mind is a “unified consciousness or intelligence formed by a number of individuals.” The resulting consciousness typically exerts control over its constituent inhabitants. Based on the definition, many examples of this were found in science fiction and even in real life. From the Flood from the Halo game series, to the Party in Nineteen Eighty-Four by George Orwell, to an insect colony, more specifically bees, to even the internet itself. In every case of a hive mind, there is an end goal. With that end goal comes a method to reach it, which involves the use of its inhabitants, whether they are willing or not is irrelevant. It can be done covertly as well. A hive mind strives for maximum efficiency to reach its goal. In science fiction, it is sometimes depicted as totalitarian, but even so, the efficiency is undeniable. Every example of a hive mind that I discovered in relation to science fiction displayed has been efficient, each in their own way, but still efficient nonetheless.
Even if individuality and sense of self is sacrificed, people end up as part of a network of some sort. Information is relayed back to the “main body,” or simply the person or group at the very top of the hive mind. It can also be sent back for either everyone to know, or only specific targets, depending on what type of information it is. Everyone becomes a node in the network of knowledge. People rely on others to learn more. Knowledge literally becomes power.
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