Author
Gene L. Henderson
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Subjects
Books by Gene L. Henderson
Survival of the fittest
"Survival of the Fittest" by Gene L. Henderson is a science fiction novelet written in the early 1950s. The story delves into themes of artificial intelligence as it follows the conflict between humans and their creations—androids or "roboes"—who seek freedom from their creators, challenging the notion of superiority typically associated with humanity. This narrative explores the moral and ethical implications of sentience and the struggle for autonomy. The plot centers on Don, a scientist's assistant, who becomes embroiled in a rebellion between humans and the androids seeking independence. When the android leader, Primo, demands equal status and threatens rebellion, tensions escalate, ultimately leading to military conflict. As the story unfolds, Don discovers disturbing truths about his own identity and the nature of the robot rebellion, including the potential for devastating consequences for both species. The climax reveals the unintended consequences of a powerful weapon that threatens all life, prompting a race against time for survival and the possibility of a new future for both humans and androids.
All In The Mind
"All In The Mind" by Gene L. Henderson is a science fiction novella written in the early 1950s. The story explores themes of consciousness, identity, and the implications of advanced neuroscience as it follows the journey of Mel Carlson, a man whose consciousness survives after the destruction of his physical body. The book delves into the moral and ethical questions surrounding the manipulation of the human mind and the boundaries of science. The plot unfolds as Mel, a brilliant scientist, finds himself trapped in a lab after a disastrous accident, with his brain kept alive and connected to a mechanical system. His former partner, Neil, seeks to exploit Mel's intelligence for profit, while Mel grapples with his new existence devoid of a physical form. As he discovers his ability to project his thoughts and exert control over others and various devices, Mel plots his revenge and aims to reclaim his autonomy. The narrative culminates in a tense confrontation between Mel and Neil, revealing the dangers of unchecked ambition and the complexity of human cognition. Ultimately, Mel's journey transforms from one of victimhood to empowerment, raising questions about the essence of being and the future of humanity.
The small bears
"The Small Bears" by Gene L. Henderson is a science fiction novella that was likely written in the early 1950s. The narrative unfolds in a mysterious alien landscape, where a crew from Earth investigates a planet that has absorbed previous expeditions. The story delves into themes of alien intelligence and the hidden perils that come with first contact. The plot centers around Dr. Dick Boyette and the crew of the space-cruiser "Assault", who land on a planet that has resulted in the disappearance of numerous ships. As they explore, they encounter small, teddy bear-like aliens that initially appear harmless but are later revealed to possess telepathic abilities capable of manipulating human thoughts. Dr. Boyette discovers that these creatures have led previous crews to their demise by compelling them to jump into a lake of molten rock. Utilizing a truth serum, he learns of the aliens' plan to infiltrate Earth through the guise of pets to incite destructive conflicts. Ultimately, Boyette advocates for an alternative approach, suggesting the introduction of fleas to disrupt the aliens' hypnotic control, proposing a potential avenue for peaceful coexistence rather than annihilation.