Seveneves is a hard science treatment typical of Neal Stephenson though at its crux is a narrative about the fundamentals of human nature. In the wake of a cataclysm that threatens biologic life on Earth, humans have to navigate the disarray while stretching their scientific capabilities. It explores how the human race with its vast scientific knowledge and potential of further advancements can utilize and manipulate them to secure its survival.
From a scientific point of view, Stephenson delves into genetic engineering and space science to showcase the potential of human response in such a crisis. In essence how much innovations could yield if all global resources are directed toward a single endeavor. Therefore highlighting the question of whether modern society is prepared for such a cataclysm. In the book, the world is unexpectedly bombarded with a catastrophic event that it was structurally unprepared for. Akin to our reality, humanity focused on advancing information systems and network infrastructures over resilient structures to protect the ecosystem.
Moreover, the book explores whether civilizations can remain socially and politically intact amid civil disorder and worldwide chaos. The world governments are dissolved following the bolides colliding on the Earth surface and martial law is sanctioned under a new constitution. Thus, alluding to the insignificance of national interests when the world is facing a common threat that can wipe out all human life. However, it does not mean that everyone will abide by a centralized power structure hence factions split with opposing beliefs on the way forward. The exclusive permit for the chosen few to relocate to the space habitats creates instability and following the Hard Rain, the Earthers split into different blocs. The space station and habitats are not spared as a power struggle also take place and in 5000 years seven races exist as a consequence of it.
