Galaxy!

As we begin to transition toward the next book in our Asimov journey, we wanted to take some time and talk a little about Asimov's life. Like how he grew up, what got him into science fiction, and a general look at how his career unfolded. By looking into this, we hope to add a little context to the books we are reading, by seeing how Asimov's life informs his ideas. ----more----

In case you're interested, here are some links to Asimov's autobiographies (yes he wrote more than one):

In Memory Yet Green - https://www.amazon.com/Memory-Yet-Green-Autobiography-1920-1954/dp/038513679X/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=in+memory+yet+green&qid=1602099034&sr=8-1

In Joy Still Felt - https://www.amazon.com/Joy-Still-Felt-Autobiography-1954-1978/dp/0385155441/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=In+joy+still+felt&qid=1602099126&sr=8-1

I, Asimov - https://www.amazon.com/I-Asimov-Memoir-Isaac/dp/055356997X/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=I%2C+Asimov&qid=1602099185&sr=8-1

It's Been a Good Life - https://www.amazon.com/Been-Good-Life-Isaac-Asimov-ebook/dp/B002FU5OIQ/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=It%27s+been+a+good+life&qid=1602102731&sr=8-1 

In the last section of I, Robot, which we cover in this episode, some tables start to turn. Robots seem to exercise much more control over people, whether individuals, or populations, or even the course of humanity. The question is, as we allow artificial intelligence to run more and more aspects of our lives, what is it of our humanity that we start to lose? Will we find ourselves, eventually, in a trap of our own making, with technology in the lead?

On this episode, we explore how Asimov's robots develop feelings, desires, and ambitions which can work against the well-being of the humans in their midst. What do the stories of Herbie and Nestor-10 say about our temptation to live in fantasy, or the resentment that we feel when undervalued by others? We analyze chapters 5 & 6 of I, Robot, "Liar!" and "Little Lost Robot," to bring you our thoughts on those questions.

Any good technology needs a lot of troubleshooting before it's ready for the market. In the case of the robots we're discussing, that's where Greg Powell and Mike Donovan enter the picture. In this episode, we discuss this unlikely pair and the robots that they have to deal with. From Speedy to Cutie to Dave, we look at what makes them tick, how and why they break down, and the ways in which Asimov's robots speak to the human condition. We also take a good look at the three laws of robotics and discuss whether or not they are actually realistic. 

Our exploration of Asimov's Sci Fi novels begins with I, Robot. This is a fascinating book, woven together from several of Asimov's short stories, in which landmark ideas like the positronic brain and the three laws of robotics originate. On this episode, we discuss the first chapter, "Robbie," which tells the story of a little girl and her robot nursemaid. What are we to make of Robbie? Can a robot be an effective caretaker? What are the implications of this story for our children's relationship to technology. Join in the conversation with us!

Welcome to Galaxy! On this podcast, Jason Stark, Stephanie Junker and Jacob Junker will explore the Sci Fi literary universe of Isaac Asimov. Jason is a seasoned reader of Asimov's novels, and Jacob and Stephanie are newcomers to the material. Together, they will analyze each of the novels which Asimov wrote, as well as how he weaved multiple narrative strands into one over the course of several decades. They will explore the themes and messages of the books, as well as their relevance for today and how they explore big questions. As this project is begun, you are encouraged to read along and join in the conversation!