In this episode, we begin our discussion of Philip K. Dick's 1968 Science Fiction classic Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? As a multi-episode series, we will begin with some opening remarks about the major themes of the novel as well as the main focus of the novel. As an academic study of the novel, the goal will be to apply a theoretical framework to a reading of the text. As we continue to study the story, we will also discuss the 1982 film Blade Runner, the film inspired by the novel. The comparisons we will draw will help you arrive at a better understanding of both mediums in delivering a powerful message about existence, the state of being, empathy, and how to define what it means to be human.