- Dystopian Society: The story takes place in a dystopian future, where society has undergone significant advancements in biotechnology and has created a rigid system based on physical appearance. This setting and the exploration of potential consequences make it a work of science fiction.
- Technological Advancements: The novel introduces a range of futuristic technologies, including surgeries and treatments that can alter a person's physical features. These technological aspects and their implications on society align with the genre of science fiction.
- Social Commentary: "Uglies" uses its unique setting to provide commentary on social issues, such as the obsession with physical perfection, societal conformity, and the search for individuality in a world driven by external standards. These elements often form a central part of science fiction literature.
- Exploration of Identity: The story delves into themes of self-discovery and personal growth as the characters navigate a society that places a high value on physical appearance. The examination of identity in relation to societal expectations and genetic manipulation is a typical component of science fiction works.
- Science and Society: The novel explores the complex relationship between scientific advancement and societal norms. It raises questions about the potential consequences of using technology to manipulate human biology, blurring the lines between natural and artificial. This exploration aligns with the core themes of science fiction literature.
- Speculative Elements: Science fiction often involves speculative elements that imagine new or altered scientific possibilities. "Uglies" presents a future society shaped by advanced technologies and altered biological norms, showcasing its speculative nature.
- World-Building: The novel meticulously constructs a detailed future world with unique systems, language, and cultural norms. This intricate world-building is a characteristic feature of science fiction, allowing readers to immerse themselves in a plausible, yet alternative, reality.
Overall, "Uglies" by Scott Westerfeld is a science fiction novel due to its exploration of advanced technology, its setting in a dystopian future, and its examination of social and ethical issues in the context of a scientifically altered society. These elements distinguish it as a work of science fiction.