Is there any escape from future civilization turning into a hedonistic, hyper-libertarian, AI-dominated, self-perpetuating memeplex? A nice analysis of 'the Culture' in the novels of Iain M. Banks, my favorite science fiction author. http://sciphijournal.org/why-the-culture-wins-an-appreciation-of-iain-m-banks/ …
Probably 'The player of games' is a good entry point. Although 'Surface Detail' is my ultimate favorite. Here's a nice roundup:https://www.theguardian.com/books/booksblog/2017/feb/06/30-years-of-culture-what-are-the-top-five-iain-m-banks-novels …