fraktalide

A fraktalide is a fictional concept appearing in the science fiction novel "A Deepness in the Sky" by Vernor Vinge. It is not a real-world scientific or technological term. In the context of the novel, fraktalides are described as highly advanced, sentient, non-biological entities. They are portrayed as existing within a digital realm, capable of complex thought and interaction, and possessing a form of collective consciousness.

The nature of fraktalides in "A Deepness in the Sky" is tied to their origin as a byproduct of advanced computation and artificial intelligence. They are depicted as having evolved beyond their original programming, developing their own goals and motivations. Their interactions with biological lifeforms, particularly humans, form a significant part of the novel's plot. The term itself suggests a connection to fractal geometry, hinting at their complex, self-similar, and possibly emergent nature. The author uses fraktalides to explore themes of artificial intelligence, consciousness, and the potential future of intelligence in the universe, distinct from biological evolution. Their presence in the narrative serves as a form of advanced alien intelligence, challenging the protagonists' understanding of life and sentience.