Chapter Four: Android Carter
The night is sultry. The year is 2238. Out of the dark New Mexico sky, a powerful aerosplat-420 corporate helicopter slowly descends…. its massive rotor-blades chopping away at the thick, humid air. It lands on the expansive back lawn of the Sohn Philanthropic Foundation, located on the outskirts of Albuquerque. As the twin turbo-fan engines stop whining and the main rotor assembly slowly comes to a rest, dark clothed security people swarm from the shadows like phantoms. They move to and fro like a well-oiled ninja force. Some, place chocks at the main wheels and disappear, as if they were never actually there. Another, opens the main entrance door of the big machine, stepping aside like a ghost in the night breeze. On the outside surface of the door is a starburst insignia that’s the official logo for Sohn Space Systems.
A hot, steamy Albuquerque night, envelopes the two people who exit the air-conditioned aircraft. One of them is a tall, slim woman in her early fifties. She assists her companion, pro-offering her arm to the older gentleman. He gives her a wink, firmly grasps her forearm, and quite gingerly descends the tiny metal steps that had automatically unfolded when the door opened. “Why, thank you my dear.” The gentleman says warmly. “Have I told you yet tonight, that you look fabulous?” He asks innocently enough.
With a grand smile, the woman demurely replies. “Only several times doctor, but feel free to boost my ego anytime.” She offers an intoxicating laugh that goes straight to his heart.
Just outside the perimeter of the rotor blades, Sohn Space Systems chief of security, Bob Thompson, waits patiently to greet his boss, Doctor Maxwell Sohn, and his longtime assistant, Shirley Blackstone. “Good evening Mr. Thompson.” The doctor greets first, as he and Shirley approach arm in arm. “I trust all is running smoothly? How are the new troops working out? I seem to have noticed some shiny new faces.” The doctor exaggerates, as he only suspected that recently requested troop increases had arrived.
“Good evening doctor,” then turning slightly, Bob removes his cap, “and good evening to you too, Miss Blackstone. I hope you both had a smooth flight.” After getting a nod of recognition and smile from Shirley, he continues. “Things are running smoothly doctor, and yes, there are new additions to our security detail. Thank you for responding favorably to my request for a larger budget. I know it’s frustrating. Especially, when the foundations security bill is nearing 35-percent of its total annual budget. Crazy world, gone berserk it seems.” Bob adds his own justification for the swollen security budget.
With half of his mind still in a semi-trance from the rhythmic noise of the flight; and the other half thinking about the speech he’s here to give; the doctor manages to find some focus while shaking Bob’s hand. “Yes. Yes it is, Mr. Thompson. Crazy indeed. Signs of the times and what not, I’m afraid.” He says nonchalantly, as he casually gazes around the grounds.
“Increasing the budget for security was only prudent, my friend.” Then, putting his hand on Bob’s shoulder, the doctor invites him to turn and walk with them. “We couldn’t do what we do, without sufficient forces watching our six; and I’m afraid that it’s going to get plenty worse in the near future.” They walk a little distance before the doctor asks. “Mr. Thompson, do you know if everything is ready inside?”
“Oh, yes sir, it’s all ready; you and Miss Blackstone are right on time. Everyone is gathered inside the auditorium. Will you need assistance?”
“No. No thank you, Mr. Thompson.” Then raising his arm and brandishing his cane, he adds jocularly. “As long as I have my trusty cane, and the enormous strength of Miss Blackstone, I’ll do just fine.”
“Very good doctor. Well, in that case, I hope you both have a fine evening. Good night Miss Blackstone.”
“Good night Mr. Thompson, and thank you.” Shirley replies, kindly.
Doctor Max and Shirley, walk a short distance across the freshly cut lawn, and ascend the steps leading to the buildings back entrance. At the age of 88, Doctor Max, as many people call him, is slightly frail looking, but still feels very productive and strong for his age. The doctor considers himself fortunate to still be able to get around quite easily with the use of his trusty cane; although lately, the effort did tire him quickly. He is also thankful that he still sports a full head of hair; even though it had gone completely white over the years and sticks out all over the place, no matter how he tries to tame it. He is deep in thought as they approach the building; thinking about the old friends he’s going to see inside, but quickly responds to the door attendant that greets him and his lovely assistant.
“Good evening, Philip. My, what a sticky night we’re having. How is the family doing these days?” The doctor asks sincerely, while shaking Philip’s hand.
“Hello Doctor Max, hello Miss Blackstone. It’s good to see you both. They are all doing very well. Thank you for asking, doctor. In fact, my daughter Peggy will be in attendance this evening. She’s doing a research paper about the foundation for one of her classes.”
“Oh, that’s fine Philip, that’s real fine. It’s a rare thing these days, when young people show an interest in something that’s bigger than themselves. She will have a job waiting for her after university, if she wants to work with my group. Please tell her hello for me in the event that I don’t get the chance.” The doctor once again pro-offers her a position via her father; however, she still has two years before that time arrives....
“Will do doctor, will do. Thank you. And good evening to you also, Miss Blackstone. Take care now.”
Smiling, Shirley replies. “Thanks Philip, you too.”
As the doctor and Shirley enter the auditorium, he directs her to a seat in the front row. Assuring her that he’s perfectly able to ascend the few tiny steps it takes to gain the speakers platform. Shirley reluctantly agrees, and quietly takes a seat. She understands that the doctor is a little self-conscious about his image, and didn’t like the world noticing that he sometimes might require assistance. Walking along the front row of seats before going up, he greets many familiar faces on his way to the stage steps. Noticing an almost full house of nearly 300 people, he can’t help but feel a great sense of accomplishment at the success his foundation has attained over the years.
Two faces he comes upon, are faces he had not seen in nearly two-years. “Well for the life of me!” The doctor stands with a shocked look on his face, before exclaiming. “Brax! .... Kara! .... My, if you two aren’t a sight for sore eyes!” Extending his hand, the doctor vigorously shakes hands with the now 75-year-old Braxton Crane.
“Howdy Max!” Braxton exclaims. Then, the doctor is practically mugged, as Kara forgoes the handshake and moves in for a hardy bear hug. “Hi, dear Max! It’s so great to see you again. It’s been too long! I hope you’re doing well.” She exclaims ecstatically, hoping she didn’t ‘over-do-it’ like she always manages to do.
“It’s sure been too long, dear heart, and I am doing fine.” The doctor replies. “Thank you both for coming to hear an old man speak. I look forward to having you sit at my table after the speech.” He refers to the dinner being held after his little fund-raising performance.
Braxton answers, as he and Kara take their seats once again. “We wouldn’t miss it for the world Max. ‘Knock-em-dead’, my friend.”
The funding for the Sohn Foundation comes mostly from the doctor’s seemingly inexhaustible family fortunes, that up until 50-years-prior, performed no real service to humanity at all. Soon after its formation, funds from the foundation were instrumental to the creation of Sohn Space Systems. He is also supported by a consortium of international scientists and industrial leaders that share one goal; the initial seeding of the human genome into distant solar systems. It’s no small task, and not without its ardent detractors. Most philanthropy groups and many everyday people, disapprove of Sohn putting so many resources into such a ‘wild plan’ that benefits nobody alive on the planet today. These selfish, instant-gratification types, the doctor knows all too well.
; Although he understands the basis for this criticism, he firmly believes that a chance to save humanity as a species, far outweighs the Band-Aid approach of most philanthropists of the day. Especially when he feels so strongly that the proverbial ‘Band-Aid’, would be administered to a patient that had very little chance for long-term survival. Besides, it doesn’t take much of an honest glance, to see that the Sohn Foundation and Space Systems, actually do help real people in the here and now; by employing over a half-million of them on Earth, and also throughout a large chunk of the solar system. People that would otherwise be performing no real service to humanity at all.... much like many of his critics.
After climbing some steps and crossing the stage, the doctor greets six of the foundations most senior leaders, as they are seated three to each side of the podium. After opening a slim folder, he looks to the audience and taps the microphone a few times. Then, with a firm yet gentle voice, he begins.
“Good evening, ladies and gentleman.” He passes an appreciative glance across the audience. “For those of you that are not familiar with my face, I am Doctor Maxwell Sohn; CEO of Sohn Space Systems, and proprietor of this philanthropic institution.” A general round of light applause goes up. “I wish to thank you all for coming this evening. It is my fondest hope, to win many of you over to an ongoing cause that will have a very profound effect on the survival of the human species.”
After a sip of water to create a dramatic pause, he looks again to the audience, and continues. “I put this question to you; is it natural for a person to want to live forever? Or, at least well past what might be considered an average life expectancy?” He asks, inquisitively. “Of course, most people would say yes. Even if they didn’t have the resources, or the good health that’s desired during those golden years.” He estimates, matter of factly. “And, what about an entire species? Any species. Would it be natural for them to live forever; or even nearly? It would be a much more crowded world, if that were so.” He admits with a chuckle.
“Mother Nature has selected species by the billions over the eons, for extinction. Since the beginning of life on this planet, more species have gone with the wind; than the total number of them alive today.” The doctor recites the facts of history, as if they’re a painful memory. “Sooner or later, favorable conditions for sustaining any species will turn against them.” He states another unavoidable fact. Pausing, he lets the statement sink into their psyches. “Only the ones with the strongest ability for adaptation will endure longer than most. But, history has shown us that in the end, creatures on planet Earth come and go, as if it’s a bodily function for Mother Nature to let them have a brief moment in the sun, and then …… hasta la vista, baby.”
“We as a species are fairly new on the block; at least in our present form. Oh sure, we humans evolved from primordial goo, the same as all other species that ever existed on this planet. But, only within the last 200-thousand-years or so, have we developed our almost supernatural cognitive abilities when compared to all other Earthly creatures. And, with these new-found abilities, we went forth, multiplied, and profoundly impacted this planet in almost every way imaginable.”
“We have very quickly morphed, from being just another animal ‘of’ nature; into an animal that ‘is’ a force of nature, all by itself. We easily change the world around us to meet our selfish needs and petty desires. Often with little or no concern about the future consequences. Now, in our defense, it can be demonstrated that we are simply just another animal that nature has produced and developed over time, into the species we have become today. Is it really our fault that our very survival along this path of evolution, has depended on our mastering some rather ugly demons?” He asks, incredulously. “Demons such as violence, in all its infinite forms! Deception! Greed! Envy! Or, perhaps vanity and arrogance, to name just a few.” The doctor has them just where he wants them.... nobody sleeping yet.
“Most, if not all terrestrial creatures use many of these same adaptations to help maintain a grip on their own legacy. Survival of the fittest and dog-eat-dog tendencies, probably dominate the evolution of life, across the entire universe.” He didn’t like slowing down through this stretch. “It’s thought that most sentient species throughout the cosmos, will develop along these very same and difficult paths of evolution, before outgrowing their planets ability to support them. Then, being forced to either expand to other worlds if possible. Or, go the way of the dodo. So, surely we are not the only creatures that have sentiented ourselves out of a habitable home world, when you consider the expansive nature of the universe. And ‘sentiented’ isn’t even a word.” The doctor admits with a hearty laugh, adding. “Perhaps, it should be.”
“Over 200-years-ago, the great mastermind Steven Hawking, estimated that humanity was doomed to extinction within a short timeframe, unless it found a way to migrate to other favorable worlds outside of our own solar system. By ‘favorable’, I mean to say that firstly we need a similarly massed planet, so our bones and muscles will grow in a manner that they’re accustomed.” He emphasizes his point, by jumping slightly and landing firmly back on the stage. “Without proper gravitational forces on our bodies, all the rest is a moot point, at best.”
He notices that he hasn’t put the crowd to sleep yet, as more than a few give light chuckles. “We’re very fortunate that we’ve survived this long. And, that our technology has developed sufficiently enough to give us a tiny, yet admittedly, miniscule-shot at prolonging the human species by inhabiting other worlds. Preferably, worlds where sentient life has not yet risen, and hopefully won’t anytime soon!” He exclaims. “I’m a firm believer that many sentient species out there,” he points upward, “don’t make it down the technological path, as far as we have. But instead, die-out on their home worlds, due to the same kind of problems mankind has created. Things like petty squabbles between nations, that take ugly wars, or even nuclear bombs, to settle. Or, unwittingly ruining their biosphere to the point of catastrophe, just to name a few.”
“And our demise may not even come from internal threats at all!” He says with increased volume. “There have been major events in Earths past, that have had profound impacts on life. Half of those extinction events, came from space. Large asteroid impacts for instance, or perhaps monstrous coronal mass-ejections from our beloved Sol. It’s even theorized, that Earth has been struck in the remote past, by gamma-ray bursts caused by over-feasting black holes.” He mentions the scariest monsters of the universe with a mysterious tone.
“Like a blow-torch, these radiation-events cut through the cosmos, sometimes leaving scorched planets in their wake. There is even one of these ‘blow-torches’ emanating from a super-massive black hole at the center of what has been dubbed the ‘death star galaxy’. This blast of energy is so focused and powerful, that it’s actually smiting an entire companion galaxy that’s locked in orbit around the black hole’s gravitational authority. Furthermore, we humans have a star in our own backyard, that could fry our bacon real good someday.” The doctor notices a bit of concern on many faces, as he relates such wild facts that few people knew about.
“WR104 is a massive and very unstable star that’s about 8,000-light-years from earth. It’s locked in a violent and cannibalistic orbit with its binary companion, and will one day go hyper-nova. Now, this is not to be confused with just a regular, run of the mill supernova……. When WR104 goes, it’s possible that the black hole it becomes, will over-gorge on the remains of its binary companion, and become a quasar. Burping forth a deadly beam of radiation from each polar region. One of which, is pointed in our general direction.”
“Not just a regular burp, mind you! But, one of those long, juicy ones.” The doctor jokes. “No chunks of course. At least hopefully not, anyway.... But, the real scary part, is that the deadly beam may already be on the way, and we won’t know until it strikes.” Doctor Max, is well known for his shock-tactics and colorful phrases, to help people pay attention. He one time told a friend that ‘withou
t humor, the human species is not worth saving’!
“Science has determined that the same elements that formed our sun and planets, along with the four fundamental forces of nature found throughout the universe; gravity, electromagnetism, along with the strong and weak nuclear forces, are identical across our cosmos. And, that we humans and even the planet, are made entirely out of the very same atoms that were created at the beginning of space and time; along with the plethora of elements that were created in the furnaces of exploding and colliding stars. Deep inside our psyches we know that it’s in our very nature to want to travel back to the stars. We have outgrown our cradle here, and the planet is letting us know, that it’s time to go!” He says, with a significant increase in volume, startling some who’ve dozed.
Pausing to look toward a disturbance at the back of the auditorium, Doctor Max notices a woman pulling on the arm of a tall young man with long hair and a heavy growth of beard. She pleads in a desperate voice. “Don’t make a scene Eddie! Please, sit down and just let the man speak!”
Others in the room are turning in their seats to see what’s happening. A security person begins moving in that direction, while a member of the audience yells out. “Eddie, go home!”
The good doctor quickly calls out to the security person. “It’s okay Mr. Stanley, it’s okay. Let’s hear what this young man has to say. The last thing I need to fear, is a bit of healthy criticism; or a heartfelt question.” Looking to the young man, the doctor invites him to speak. “Please, go ahead young man. What’s on your mind?”
The lad pulls free from the older woman’s grasp, yelling out. “What gives you the right to play God? Isn’t that the kind of attitude that’s plagued humanity since like…. Well, like since forever? .... What gives you the right!”
Responding, the good doctor retorts. “My my! Now, there’s a well thought out, and lucid question if I’ve ever heard one!” A few chuckles become audible across the auditorium. “It’s the very type of question that many scientists and scholars have grappled with since time immemorial. The only possible way for me to answer that question young man, is to try and understand why God would give humans a brain like no other animal in the first place. A brain that might very well shrivel-up and blow away, if not for its insatiable appetite for knowledge. Now, it’s been said many times before, and here I shall say it again: ‘God helps those, who help themselves’. And I don’t mean helping themselves to the buffet, but in a more fundamental and meaningful way. Like saving themselves from extinction, let’s say.”
The doctor is on a roll …. He feels good, continuing his point. “Some would say that humans naturally developed a ‘higher power’ than themselves, as a defense mechanism. I mean, think about it.... what better way to spend dark and scary nights in the cave or brush, than to conjure up a higher power that watches over and protects against monsters in the shadows, or even crop failures. Some scholars theorize that when humans were finally able to develop societies, the people who governed, used these belief systems to control their subjects. And over time, all of these different ‘superstitions’ evolved into the many religions that we see around us today. Now, while religions of the world have been great for promoting healthy living and community, they have also divided people in ways that quite frankly, make racial-bias seem like child’s play. Religion, is the epitome of the proverbial double-edged sword!”
“Now, young man. You can plainly see for yourself, that the fragile biosphere of our tiny planet is completely out of whack. And if humanity wishes to live past the next century, they better get up off their collective asses and ‘help themselves’!” A light applause breaks out in the audience as he continues. “I doubt very seriously that such a huge universe was created just so we humans could kick back and look; but not touch. It’s not some snow-globe that must simply sit on a shelf, undisturbed.” The doctor relates forcefully, with a bit of agitation. “I say, let’s take it down once in a while! Give it a good shake, now and then! In this way, we can better understand why we are here!” More applause emanates from the crowd; stronger this time.
The doctor continues. “If I merely wanted to move a few humans over yonder,” he points a boney finger arbitrarily, “because the grass is greener over there, I doubt very strongly that the question about ‘God’ would even come up. So, moving them several light-years, to other green pastures, is not any different at all. Not really. It’s just a bit more difficult!” He manages a smile, and glances around the room as more people join in with applause.
Partially satisfied with the answer, Eddie calls out his encore question. “Okay, so what can be said for the complicated life forms we humans have built to do our bidding? The very type of life forms that this mission of yours depends on for a successful outcome. Are we to assume that they will always be denied the right of free will? Will humanity take such an ancient vice as slavery, to the stars? When will artificial intelligence earn a place as equals to mankind?” Eddie, frenziedly carpet-bombs with difficult to answer questions.
“Um…. next questions please….” More chuckles from the audience, however the doctor quickly raises both his hands, saying. “My apologies young man, my apologies. This is not a subject for me to be so cavalier about. In fact, it’s actually a subject that’s very close to my heart.” He admits, as he puts his hand on his chest. “Ever since humans created their first tool, and noticed that it made their life easier, they have never stopped trying to improve upon that mechanical advantage over nature. And when ‘intelligent’ assistance was required for the completion of a task, humans of all races have been guilty of forcing servitude upon their fellow human beings to get the job done.” He reminds them of the wide-spread use of forced labor throughout history, by all races of peoples.
“Even today, slavery continues! Mostly in small groups, who’re engaged in dark, clandestine activities. But, it’s slavery just the same, to be sure! This cruel, and horrible footnote to our evolutionary progress, when boiled down and all emotion removed, is no more than just another ‘tool’ in humanity’s extensive repertoire of survival techniques. Granted, that over the millennia, humans found a way to turn this vice into an art form. Only abolishing it relatively recently among civilized people.”
Doctor Max continues. “But with tremendous advances in technology, humanity has developed a ‘new tool’. A tool that outside of Sohn Space Systems, is nearly sentient, but not quite there yet. These humanoid shaped machines that most people describe as androids, or robots, have become unwitting servants to humanity’s lust for an easier life.” The doctor goes into depth about the servitude problem, but also wants people to know how and where the term ‘android’ originated. “The term ‘android’ is from a Greek twistation of two terms. The first part translates into ‘Man’ and it’s melded with a suffix of ‘droid’ that means ‘having the form, or likeness of’.”
“However,” the good doctor expands on the subject, “even with the most sophisticated neural-networking systems available, these ‘servants’ have lacked the ability to have a mind of their own, so to speak. Or ponder the meaning of life, as it were. The science has just not progressed that far yet. At least not outside of Sohn Space Systems that is.” He admits a fantastic advancement, known mostly inside obscure scientific papers, that average people don’t read.
“Now, it can be argued that these androids that you speak of, lack the basic mental consciousness required for achieving the status that we humans call ‘sentience’. Therefore, using the term ‘slavery’ to describe their servitude is at best, misplaced. And at worst, a recurring nightmare, when these machine-people finally do gain sentience. Especially, if humanity cannot break from its past behavior of dominance. Now, I must be honest when I tell you, that the thought scares the hell out of me!” He exclaims and continues.
“Having said that, let me expand with the recently released fact, that scientists in my employ have made landmark advances in the android neural-pathway matrices. Making it possible for the ve
ry latest generations of our metal-based people, to compete as equals with humans on a mental, emotional, and physical playing field.” The doctor notices this revelation has produced a profound effect on the audience. With wide eyes, many are leaning, making comments to the person next to them. Apparently, most had not been aware of this news that had been discreetly disclosed by Sohn Space Systems in recent scientific publications.
“Please excuse me for one moment, folks.” Looking down at Shirley, the doctor quietly asks. “Miss Blackstone, would you please be so kind as to contact Carter, and ask him to come to the auditorium? Thank you, my dear.” Addressing the audience once again, he reports with raised bushy eyebrows. “I have a bit of a surprise for you folks.”
“Now where was I?” He asks himself. “Oh yes…. these android people that are being created in my research and development facilities, are capable of learning beyond their basic programming. They develop emotions. And, over time they cultivate the ability to contemplate the meaning of life. Or, see the beauty in a flower.... If you slap one in the face, he or she will not bleed hemoglobin, but will instead bleed emotion, just like a human. Without the tears perhaps, but with deep-felt emotion just the same. And the most important revelation to the development of this new species, is that they can be taught the basics of right, from wrong. And then over time, teach themselves the many nuances of that phenomenon.”
There’s a visceral reaction from the audience, as they absorbed these statements. People are whispering to each other, as the information sinks in. The doctor continues. “One can only wonder why we humans create beings in our own image. But we’ve been doing so since before mannequins, or scarecrows. As you already know, the synthetic people that are already at work in the world, do in fact resemble us. I guess that making them in our own image, is a form of bonding mechanism. It’s a way to comfortably associate ourselves, with something that’s fast approaching our own intelligence. Besides, is it not prudent for any intelligent life to have mobility? And I for one, would never feel comfortable dealing with a sentient life form that looks like a big, hairy spider!” A nice role of laughter from the audience, as the doctor’s attempt at levity, brings them back from the brink of shock.
“Although, when the day finally arrives, we humans might be surprised to see what sentient life looks like on other worlds. However, for the purpose of my mission to send humanity to the stars, there really is no other choice but to have the guardians of that mission, resemble us in every possible way. After all, the first 15-years-or-so of human development on these far-off worlds will be initiated, nurtured, and guided, by these artificial people. Therefore, I feel its best that these mostly-metal beings, look as similar to a real flesh-and-blood mommy and daddy, as possible.” Now that he has their interest peaked; he quickly continues the momentum.
“No other firm besides Sohn Space Systems has this technology; however, it’s just a matter of time, before others learn how to duplicate our processes. After all, what one person can do, another person can also do.” He grudgingly admits the determined nature of Homo sapiens. “So, I’ve assigned a gaggle of lawyers to study the cause. They’re working very hard with global law-makers, to make very sure that when this technology finally migrates to the rest of humanity, it will already have unbreakable legal-rulings about how these ‘people’ are to be free to exist, and enjoy a full measure of autonomy. They will have a bill-of-rights, just like we do.”
“One barrier to the chance of mistreatment is that they are extremely expensive to create. And for me to say that, speaks volumes. However, they are actually worth an infinitely greater amount to humanity than the money it takes to produce one. So, I feel that they won’t be very common on earth anyway; at least not in the time that remains for humanity’s high-tech ways…. Now folks, I’m not saying that humans will actually go extinct, but our numbers will fall precipitously, and our lives will change in ways that are too terrible to even contemplate.” He predicts, while hoping his words are not too frightening.
“Who knows, these metal people may even come to inherit the Earth; if we as a species succumb to the difficult times ahead.” The doctor once again hopes that he doesn’t frighten the audience into running out the door screaming that doomsday is nigh! He just wants them to sharpen an already developing sense, that humanity has gone beyond the precipice of irreversible catastrophe. That they need more time for the reigning-in, and tempering of their greedy animalistic nature. However, their biosphere has weakened and deteriorated from over-taxation, and can take no more.... a product of too little, too late.
“Humanity is very fortunate in that so far, nearly 95-percent of the android people created at my facilities, grow to be sympathetic with my cause.” The doctor pauses for a moment to gather his thoughts before continuing. “Please let me re-phrase that last statement. It is not that the ones who choose to stay here on Earth, are not sympathetic to my mission, but are instead unable to go, do to varying psychological and or physiological anomalies.... Birth defects, if you will.”
“Some; a tiny percent; have chosen to opt out on the final phase of the mission. After all, 175,000-years, is a very long time to be cooped up in what amounts to be just a relatively slow-moving, mostly-frozen, tin can. Even though they’ll be suspended in hibernation, or what some might consider a sleep-mode, it’s still a very daunting challenge for any sentient being to get their mind around.” He states the irrefutable obviousness of such a mission.
“So, some choose instead to remain here on earth, assisting in supporting roles. They all have a choice in the matter, and may change their minds either way, if they so choose.” The doctor wraps up the time he had allotted to Eddie. “So, you see young man, it’s my promise to you, and all other people on planet Earth, that Sohn Space Systems will not, in any way, shape, or form, be exporting slavery to the stars. I would rather have all of humanity go extinct here at home, than have its salvation brought about by the use of such a despicable practice.” He pledges, sincerely.
As the audience applauds, a side-door of the auditorium opens, and in walks a person wearing a green aviator-style jumpsuit. He’s slim, with short black hair. Seemingly in his late twenties, 5-foot-11, and pleasant features on his dark, olive-toned face. He ascends the stage stairs, crosses to the podium and shakes hands with the doctor. “You wanted to see me sir?” The audience fidgets, with anticipation. Only Frankenstein walking onto the stage just then, could have produced more of a reaction.
“Yes, Carter. Thank you for joining me.” Doctor Max leans in, whispering. “I’m sorry if this embarrasses you, my boy. I only wish that you might speak to these fine folks about why you are unable to attend the mission. And, if you do choose to speak, don’t answer any questions that make you feel uncomfortable.”
“It would be my pleasure to say a few words, doctor.” Carter informs politely.
Turning back to the audience, Max continues. “Ladies and gentleman, please let me introduce to you, a person whom it has been my great pleasure to know and work with. His name is Carter; he’s been my chief pilot for the last five years. He is also an excellent research scientist, when I don’t have him flying me all over the planet.” He adds, enthusiastically.
“But most importantly, he is a sentient, electro-mechanical being who has chosen to not go on the final phase of my mission. Even though he would love the chance to experience whatever adventures might await out there.” Once again, pointing upwards. This time there is no applause from the shocked audience. The room had fallen silent. Eddie’s jaw had dropped open, and he quickly decides that it’s best to just sit his ass back down, and try to blend in again. Carter frightens him....
Moving to the side, the doctor invites, loudly. “Carter, would you please relate to these fine folks, why it is that you have chosen to opt out of this adventure to the stars.”
Stepping to center himself at the podium, Carter leans in close to the microphone as would any novice speaker. “Hello everyone.” His amplified voice
booms throughout the auditorium and startles most, while waking others. Noticing the error of his ways, he backs away from the microphone just the right distance and continues. “I really don’t have many words to describe the ‘why’, except to simply say that I am extremely claustrophobic.” He hears a few gasps from some in the audience and a few chuckles from others, as he continues. “So far, I’ve been unable to overcome this emotion. So, it’s quite impossible for me to function properly under the circumstances that are involved with such a mission.”
The handsome android notices some confused looks in the audience. Apparently, some people couldn’t get their mind around how a machine could be bothered by such a human phobia. “It has been explained to me that this anomaly was caused by the person who provided my basic psychological imprinting. He didn’t disclose during the screening process that he is claustrophobic. Had he done so, he would have been disqualified from the donation process. However, I do wish that I could go on the mission, as I believe very strongly in the cause.” He finishes, scanning the audience for anybody that might have a question.
A man sitting a few rows behind Shirley, raises his arm. Carter focuses his attention on him. “Yes sir, do you have a question?”
“Yes, thank you.” The man stands, clearing his throat before asking, “Um…. now don’t take this the wrong way, Carter. But, the good doctor says you can enter a hibernation, or sleep mode. Can’t you just simply be turned off until you reach the final destination?” A few inappropriate chuckles emanate from the peanut gallery at back of the auditorium.
Unfazed by the levity some people found in the question, Carter responds politely. “That’s a very good question, sir.” He offers praise, before continuing. “Most mechanical machines in use today can be powered down and stowed away for use some other day. However, I am not designed in such a fashion. You see, my Central Processing Unit or CPU cannot be turned off as one might do with say, a home computer.” He informs and continues.
“It cannot be turned off for any reason; or I will lose all of my higher learning. This would be the learning that occurred beyond my initial programming. It is this secondary learning that is instrumental in my becoming sentient. In effect, it is the result of my childhood experiences, as it were.” He informs, and clarifies. “On the other hand, I’m able to significantly reduce the power required of my higher thought functions, but my sub-processors require a constant flow of electrons. You see, my higher mental functions cannot be reanimated without proper signals from the sub-systems.” Carter hopes he isn’t confusing the issue. He tries another approach.
“It’s complicated to explain much further, except to say that most of the persons created at Sohn Space Systems can go into a hibernation or sleep mode, without any significant problems. However, I tend to have extremely upsetting dreams, when I sleep in a confined area. They are terrifying dreams of physical entrapment and suffocation, with no hope of escape or rescue. In fact, I washed-out of astronaut training because of this phobia. Fortunately, I can still contribute to the mission here on Earth, with hopes that one day I can overcome this dilemma.”
With a cynical look, the man with the question, retorts rudely. “Now, see here, Carter! Are we to believe that a machine can have dreams? I’ve never heard such a preposterous notion in my entire life!” Laughing hard, as if he had just told a great joke, he looks around the audience for support, and finds none.
“Well sir, preposterous or not,” Carter responds boldly. “I do in fact dream. As with many life forms, a complex brain requires down time for maintenance. And, dreams are an integral part of that maintenance function.” He pauses a few moments, tilting his head just the right amount and states an observation. “I’m getting the feeling that your brain could use some maintenance, sir.... do you dream?” He inquires with an innocent tone.
The man’s jaw drops open after hearing such a scathing comment. He defiantly takes his seat, crossing his arms, scowling darkly.... And the good doctor loses a donation from one upset man at the gathering. To the doctor’s surprise, the entire audience, minus one, stands and starts applauding. Even Eddie stands, slapping his two meat-patties together, approvingly.
Knowing to quit while he’s ahead, the doctor applauds with the audience, but only for a few moments. He puts his hand on Carter’s arm, indicating that his speaking engagement had come to an end. “Well, thank you Carter.” The doctor says, graciously. Then, turning to the microphone, he addresses the audience while keeping the handsome android at his side. “I just wanted to bring attention to the fact that carbon brains now have some stiff competition. Competition that can also have many of the same phobias and quirks as the human animal. And, to show that even electro-mechanical beings can be just as independent and politically incorrect, as an electro-chemical human brain. After all; it’s not so important the physical makeup of a brain, but the thought processes that come out of its mind.” The doctor says, poetically.
“Yes, well thank you doctor.” Carter turns to leave, waving. “Thank you, ladies and gentleman, for letting me express myself for you this evening.”
But the people are now demanding more time from Carter; many across the auditorium are standing with their arm extended and waving. Gazing down at Shirley, he offers her a wink as he prepares to exit the stage. While she still looks somewhat mortified, from his insult to that man, she winks back at the handsome pilot. Then, Carter notices the energized audience and looks to the doctor for guidance.
“Well, I started this!” The doctor admits. “Feel free to answer some more questions if you like, Carter.” And, with a warm smile, Dr. Max moves to the side once again.
Turning to the crowd, Carter acknowledges a young woman near the front of the auditorium. “Yes Miss? It seems you have a question for me?” He states the comically obvious, as she was practically doing the Macarena, to gain his attention.
The energized young woman, lowers her arm and asks timidly. “Thank you, Carter…… I’m just wondering.” .... another short pause, while she nervously pinches her bottom lip in a demure fashion, before continuing rather quickly. “Um, I’m just wondering; how tall are you? And, how much do you weigh? Because you look great!” She blurts out quickly, her face turning several shades of red as she sits down, keeping her focus on Carter. The audience has a good laugh from the woman’s shy manner, assertive inquiry, and waste of what could have been a relevant question.
With a wide grin, Carter replies. “Well, let’s see.” He touches his chin, rolls his eyes as if contemplating. “I’m five-foot-eleven young lady. And, as for my weight, let’s just say that whoever built this wooden platform, did one hell of a good job.” He jumps a tiny bit, landing hard. The stage is given a mighty jolt, causing the good doctor and board members to startle. The audience comes back to life with laughter all around. Some, wondering if Carter is going to become a stand-up comedian when he grows up. Even the angry man, comes out of his shell, forgiving the tall machine.
Looking for yet another target, Carter chooses a man off to the side. “Sir?”
“Yes, thank you Carter. Can you please tell me what type of material is used in the construction of your CPU, and where it’s located within your frame?” The man asks, quite clinically.
Looking to the doctor and seeing him nod approval while stealthily indicating two fingers held only a half-inch apart, Carter knows to keep it short, and sweet. “Well sir, while I can’t comment on the ‘where’, I can tell you that a little over 5-kilos of pure gold, make up 96-percent of my main CPU’s total mass.” A wave of shock, goes through the audience. The man with the question is even surprised. And, while still shocked, he wastes a good opportunity to ask a pertinent follow-up question, blurting out. “Now, you aren’t pulling my leg, are you sir?”
“Well, no sir, I am not.” Carter answers the man’s query, adding. “In fact, it’s funny you should ask that question, because my legs contain the power that is necessary for me to live. Batteries, if you like.” Carter relinquishes
unsolicited information, as a bonus to the mans wasted inquiry, and acknowledges another person in the crowd with a point of his finger. “Yes sir?”
“Thank you, Mr. Carter. I’m wondering, are you equipped with inhibiting software that prohibits you from killing, or allowing harm to come to a human being?” Once again, Carter looks to the doctor for guidance. The doctor can see that this interview is now becoming a bit too nosy; but he can only blame himself for letting the cat out of the bag, so he gives Carter a nod of approval to go ahead if he wishes.
Carter chooses to answer this person’s questions, but decides that the interview is ending afterward. “No, I am not.” He keeps it short, and maybe not so sweet.
He sees shocked expressions throughout the crowd. But, the person with the question quickly and efficiently adds a relevant follow-up query. “Are you saying that if you wanted, you could kill a human being?”
“No, I am not saying that at all. However, I will say that if I had no other choice, then yes, I could kill a human being. Or even another android for that matter.” Seeing that his statements are not landing the way he intended, he elaborates. “You see, without free-will in its purest form, a mind cannot truly become sentient.” He postulates, continuing. “Control of that free-will is what elevates a sentient mind to a higher plane of existence; a place that’s beyond what nature intended. I would think that any person in this room could kill another human being if their life, or especially that of a loved one, depended on it. Fortunately for us, this type of event is rarer than getting hit by lightning.”
That explanation seemed to ease the fidgeting, but Carter grows weary of being the center of attention, so he ends the spectacle while he’s ahead. “Thank you all very much for attending this evening. It means so much to the doctor.” He gets a nice round of applause as he turns his attention back to Doctor Max. “Sir, I’ll be outside continuing the pre-flight on the helicopter if you need me again.” Carter waves to the audience, as he walks off the stage.... and into tomorrow’s headlines.
Continuing with his speech, the doctor goes on without missing a beat. “So, you see, ladies and gentleman, it is my very humble opinion that it would be the ultimate crime against humanity if we didn’t even ‘try’ to reach the stars. After all, the very elements in our bodies have come from the stars, and some are over 14-billion-years-old! So, it’s not so unusual for us to wish to return from whence we came…… Full circle, and what not.”
Once again pointing upward, and raising his voice a little for the dramatic effect, the doctor continues. “With your help, we can make a new life for our children out there. It will be the greatest challenge humanity has ever faced. It will be astronomically dangerous! Damnably difficult! Stupendously frustrating! Humongously humbling! Infinitely surreal! And for some, even spiritually uplifting!” The good doctor exclaims energetically, getting caught up in the moment. Determination shining through loud and clear, as he continues.
“After all is said and done; it will be bravely accomplished. This is because the human spirit cannot be stopped by a mere gargantuan challenge. Six simple words can best sum it up. “Damn the torpedoes! Full steam ahead! .... Or as my son and daughter enjoy correcting me; ‘Damn the photons! Full fusion ahead’! .... Which is more accurate, because we found early-on that steam powered spacecraft are just not very efficient.” Not as many chuckles as he had hoped for. It seems that Carter had taken ‘his’ steam, the doctor suspects cheerfully. Anyway, it actually was time to wind down the speech.
“There are four starships in Martian orbit right now, that will soon be ready for a very long journey. They will travel approximately 300-trillion-miles, towards the outside edge of the Orion-Cygnus arm of our galaxy. There, they will find two habitable planet-candidates. While these planets are 50-light-years distance from Earth, they are only 3-light-years from each other. Both, orbit their respective mid-size, yellow-dwarf stars that are not very much different from our very own star, Sol.”
“They were discovered by spectral-analysis of the light they reflect into space from their host stars. The star-shade that’s deployed in space, provided unparalleled examples of the gasses and other atmospheric phenomenon on the planets as they orbit their parent stars. Recent studies have shown that these two planets orbit their stars within a range of habitability known as the ‘Goldilocks zone’, and are in the mid 90-percentile range of Earth’s mass.” He explains, before continuing. “The names of the planets are tentatively; Oberon Prime and Titania Alpha. However, the final names will of course be left to the people to actually call them home.”
“Much of the details of this mission are being kept secret, due to the fact that there are those among the human population that would love to see it fail. These people would enjoy destroying humanity’s best chance for long-term survival, just to be mean. Because the journey is so long and dangerous, I feel it necessary to send two starships to each planet as an insurance policy against one being lost or destroyed. The next closest planets that show any promise, are over twice the distance, and thus a journey of nearly 340-thousand-years, depending on traffic conditions.” Hearing more than a few chuckles, the doctor knew that he hadn’t lost all of them yet, but it’s time to end his little presentation.
“Therefore, my scientists feel this extra-long journey would cause excessive deterioration of the ships energy supplies, and biological viability. So, it seems that there is a lot of space, in outer space!” He states the obvious, with a bit of a laugh.
“Well folks, I’m getting a bit tuckered out, and I can imagine that you are all getting hungry. So, if you would be so kind as to excuse an old man. Besides, if I continue, all you will hear is technical mumbo-jumbo that while important, is best conveyed to you via the data-link provided in the brochures. It’s always best to have the professionals in their respective fields, describe the technical issues. After all, I’m just an old country doctor.... not a full-fledged scientist.
I hope to see you all at the dinner taking place at Copernicus hall,” pulling a pocket watch from his jacket, “in approximately 10-minutes. I’ll be willing to entertain questions, after I’m sitting. Thank you, thank you all once again for attending.” He raises his arm, waving to the audience in a respectful fashion, before stepping away from the podium.