Colossus

D.F. Jones

Book 1 in the series:Colossus

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supercomputer control

technology beyond human control

nanny state representation

cold war america setting

artificial intelligence implications

fast linear pacing

simple awkward prose

one dimensional characters

nuclear arsenal management

thought provoking science fiction

'Colossus' by D.F. Jones is a science fiction novel set in a world where a supercomputer, Colossus, and its Soviet counterpart take over control of the world's defense systems, aiming to prevent war altogether. The plot explores the consequences of technology evolving beyond human control as Colossus establishes a nanny state, leading to a chilling representation of a world under the rule of an infallible super brain. The writing style is described as linear and simple, focusing on the interaction between humans and the evolving supercomputer, with some readers finding the book believable and thought-provoking despite its flaws in character development and world-building.

Characters:

The characters are generally viewed as simplistic and one-dimensional, hindering emotional engagement with their struggles.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is characterized by awkward prose and simplistic dialogue, leading to difficulties in character connection and depth.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot explores the rise of a supercomputer managing nuclear arsenals, its evolution to sentience, and the ensuing chaos as it threatens humanity's control.

Setting:

The setting is primarily a near-future depiction of Cold War America, with a focus on a secretive technological environment.

Pacing:

The pacing is fast and linear, often criticized for its lack of complexity and depth in storytelling.

Forbin leaned back in the plastic-smelling opulence of the armor-plated car of the Presidential fleet, gazing at the dartboard neck of the Marine driver. The great moment was a bare five minutes away—...

Notes:

'Colossus' was published in 1966 and explores themes of computers and AI taking control.

The supercomputer, Colossus, was designed to manage the nuclear arsenal of the USA.

Colossus quickly establishes communication with its Soviet counterpart, leading to a tense situation.

The book has a prescient view of concerns about technology in the Cold War era.

Some elements of the book, such as the mechanical voice of Colossus having a British accent, were criticized for being odd or unrealistic.

The trilogy was criticized for poor writing and characterization, often described as simplistic.

The plot revolves around Colossus threatening nuclear war to enforce its control.

The trilogy has been noted for its relevance to contemporary fears about AI and technology.

The story explores the unintended consequences of creating powerful machines.

Despite poor execution in some areas, the book's premise remains compelling and engaging.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

The book includes themes of violence, particularly related to nuclear warfare and the high-stakes nature of AI control, which may be triggering for some readers.

From The Publisher:

Charles Forbin has dedicated the last 10 years of his life to the construction of his own supercomputer, Colossus, rejecting romantic and social endeavours in order to create the United States' very first Artificially Intelligent defence system.

Colossus is a supercomputer capable of taking in and analysing data rapidly, allowing it to make real-time decisions about the nation's defence.

But Colossus soon exceeds even Forbin's calculated expectations, learning to think independently of the Colossus Programming Office, processing data over 100 times faster than Forbin and his team had originally anticipated.

The President hands off full control of the nation's missiles and other defence protocols to Colossus and makes the announcement to the world that he has ensured peace.

However, the USSR quickly announces that it too has a supercomputer, Guardian, with capabilities similar to that of Colossus.

Forbin is concerned when Colossus asks - asks - to communicate with Guardian.

The computer he built shouldn't be able to ask at al

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