Naomi Kritzer’s short story “Better Living Through Algorithms” is a humanistic subversion of common dystopian tropes in speculative fiction, establishing it as a prime example of “hopepunk,” a subgenre of speculative fiction that champions community, kindness, and active compassion in the face of overwhelming odds.  This essay argues that Kritzer uses the narrative of a deceptively modest productivity app to challenge the pervasive cynicism surrounding modern technology. Unlike stories such as Ken Liu’s “The Perfect Match,” where technology erodes personal agency, Kritzer’s AI is developed with the sole purpose of making people happier. The app encourages human connection and personal growth, ultimately empowering its users to lead more fulfilling lives.

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