Zotkóws

Zotkóws is a fictional ethnic group featured in the speculative fiction works of author A.J. Sterling. Within Sterling's narrative universe, Zotkóws are depicted as a technologically advanced civilization originating from a planet orbiting a binary star system. Their physiology is characterized by a silicon-based biology, granting them enhanced resilience to extreme temperatures and radiation. Zotkóws are known for their intricate societal structure, which emphasizes collective consciousness and long-term planning. They are often portrayed as being highly logical and pragmatic, with a deep respect for knowledge and scientific advancement.

The Zotkóws' culture places a significant emphasis on communal living and shared responsibility. Individual identity is often subsumed by the collective will, and decisions are typically made through a form of consensus-building that can span generations. Their technological achievements are vast, encompassing interstellar travel, sophisticated artificial intelligence, and advanced bio-engineering. Despite their advanced nature, the Zotkóws are generally depicted as non-expansionist, preferring to observe and study other species rather than conquer them. Their interactions with other civilizations in Sterling's stories are often characterized by a detached curiosity and a desire to understand differing perspectives. The Zotkóws' unique biology and societal norms present a consistent counterpoint to the more familiar biological and cultural frameworks of other species within the narrative.