THE LITERARY REPRESENTATION OF HUMANITY’S DECLINING SIGNIFICANCE IN CLIFFORD D. SIMAK’S NOVEL CITY

Abstract

The article examines the representation of humanity’s declining relevance in Clifford D. Simak’s science fiction novel City, focusing on the philosophical implications of the gradual disappearance of humankind from the central position in Earth’s evolutionary and cultural development. Drawing upon posthumanist theory, ecocriticism, and literary analysis, the study explores the symbolic transformation of humans from dominant agents of civilization into mythical figures whose legacy is preserved and reinterpreted by intelligent dogs and robots. Special attention is paid to the narrative structure of the novel, in which the framing legends and episodic stories gradually undermine the reliability of human-centered historical narratives. Simak depicts technological progress not as the culmination of human achievement but as a process that ultimately renders humanity unnecessary within its own evolutionary trajectory. The emergence of autonomous robots, genetically enhanced animals, and alternative forms of intelligence illustrates the decentralization of the human subject and challenges traditional definitions of civilization, intelligence, and social organization. The article argues that City anticipates many key ideas of contemporary posthumanist thought by presenting humanity as only one temporary stage in the broader continuum of life rather than the ultimate goal of evolution. Furthermore, the novel’s ecological perspective emphasizes cooperation instead of domination, suggesting that sustainable existence depends upon mutual adaptation rather than human control over nature. Simak’s vision remains particularly relevant in the context of current discussions concerning artificial intelligence, environmental crises, and the ethical implications of technological development. The study concludes that City represents not simply the decline of humanity but the emergence of a more inclusive understanding of life, intelligence, and civilization that transcends anthropocentric limitations.