The Ethical Engineer

Harry Harrison

2023年4月 · Otbebookpublishing

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この電子書籍について

The Ethical Engineer is a science fiction novel by Harry Harrison, first published in 1963. The story is set in a fictional medieval kingdom, where a power-hungry king named Lanius seeks to expand his empire by conquering neighboring lands. The main character, Conn Maxwell, is an engineer who is hired by Lanius to build a war machine that will help him conquer his enemies. However, Conn is also a man of ethics and principles, and he struggles with the moral implications of building a weapon of war. As Conn tries to navigate the treacherous political landscape of the kingdom, he becomes embroiled in a web of conspiracy and deceit. He is eventually framed for a crime he did not commit and must go into hiding to avoid being executed. In order to clear his name and stop Lanius from conquering more lands, Conn must use his engineering skills and his knowledge of the kingdom's power structure to rally the people against the corrupt ruling class. The novel is a thrilling adventure with elements of political intrigue and social commentary. It explores themes such as the nature of power and corruption, the importance of ethics and morality, and the role of individuals in effecting change. Ultimately, "The Ethical Engineer" is a cautionary tale about the dangers of blind obedience and the importance of taking responsibility for one's actions.

著者について

Harry Harrison (1925-2012) was an American science fiction author whose career spanned over five decades, leaving an indelible mark on the genre. Born in Stamford, Connecticut, Harrison's early life was marked by a stint in the U.S. Army Air Forces during World War II, where he served as a gunnery instructor. This experience, coupled with his background in illustration and comic book writing, profoundly influenced his narrative style and thematic concerns.Harrison's literary contributions are notable for their wit, satirical edge, and often subversive take on traditional science fiction tropes. He was a vocal critic of militarism and authoritarianism, themes that permeate much of his work. His ability to blend humor with serious social commentary set him apart from many of his contemporaries, making his stories both entertaining and thought-provoking.One of Harrison's most revolutionary ideas was his exploration of ecological and environmental themes long before they became mainstream concerns. His works often depicted dystopian futures where humanity's hubris and disregard for nature led to catastrophic consequences, serving as an early warning about the perils of environmental neglect.Harrison's influence on contemporary writers is significant. Authors such as Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett have cited him as an inspiration, particularly praising his ability to weave complex, morally ambiguous characters into richly detailed worlds. Despite facing controversies for his outspoken views on various social issues, Harrison remained a beloved figure in the science fiction community, celebrated for his relentless pursuit of truth through fiction.In sum, Harry Harrison was a pioneering force in science fiction, whose legacy continues to resonate with readers and writers alike, reminding us of the power of speculative fiction to challenge and inspire.