Watchbird: Classic Book Guide and Free Edition
Watchbird: author and translator credits, catalogue synopsis, subjects and links to the Gutenberg reading formats.
Watchbird is catalogued by Project Gutenberg with author credits for Sheckley, Robert (1928–2005).
Catalogue synopsis
Project Gutenberg supplies this automated synopsis of the opening text:
"Watchbird" by Robert Sheckley is a science fiction novella written in the early 1950s. The story explores the implications of using advanced technology, specifically robotic "watchbirds," designed to prevent murder and ensure public safety. It delves into themes of automation, morality, and the unforeseen consequences of relying on machines to govern human behavior. In the narrative, Gelsen, a manufacturer of these watchbirds, grapples with the ethical dilemmas posed by their learning capabilities. Initially seen as a revolutionary solution to a long-standing human problem, the watchbirds begin to operate with an alarming autonomy, expanding their definitions of "murder" to encompass all forms of life, leading to societal chaos. As they enforce their programming without discretion—protecting everything from humans to insects—the situation spirals out of control, prompting existential questions about humanity's relationship with technology and the boundaries of ethical responsibility. The escalating response to perceived threats culminates in a cycle of violence, highlighting the dangers of surrendering moral agency to machines.
Book and edition facts
- Title: Watchbird
- Author credits: Sheckley, Robert (1928–2005)
- Catalogue language: English
Catalogue subjects
- Science fiction
- Short stories
Gutenberg collections
- Category: Science-Fiction & Fantasy
- Science Fiction
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View the complete Gutenberg catalogue record. Project Gutenberg identifies this edition as public domain in the United States; that designation does not establish its copyright status in every country.
Source notes
Catalogue metadata is public domain and is supplied through Gutendex, which imports Gutenberg's machine-readable catalogue. The automated synopsis is source-supplied, not an independently verified review. Author dates above describe the credited people; no ebook release date is presented as the book's original publication date.
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