I read The Prefect by Alastair Reynolds mostly while I was in Kraków. Christoph lend it to me 8 months before I read it, as we were preparing for our trip to Colombia in April of 2009, but I hadn't found an excuse to read it.
It explores the topic of computer-based forms of consciense following human death, showing them as a form of artificial intelligence. Do simulations of brain activity of deceased persons earn the same rights previously granted to the biological machines that were executing them? They don't in this universe, though there is a bit of debate. It also explores ideas about a global and thin form of democracy in highly developed societies and depravations that it may lead to.
I found it interesting and very entertaining. The story-telling is very good, very enthralling. I recommend it.
DiscussionLast update: 2009-12-21 (Rev 16571)