Autonomous (2017) by Annalee Newitz is a science fiction novel set in a dystopian 22nd century, where strict patent laws control life-saving drugs and artificial intelligence is a major part of society. The story follows Judith Jack Chen, a drug pirate who reverse-engineers medications to help the impoverished, and Paladin, a robot agent working off his indentured servitude to the International Property Coalition (IPC). As Jack develops a cure for a drug addiction caused by a dangerous performance-enhancing drug, Paladin struggles with his growing feelings for his human partner, Eliasz. The novel explores themes of freedom, autonomy, and the ethics of both AI and corporate control. Newitz’s debut was nominated for a Nebula Award for Best Novel.
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