"Think Like a Dinosaur" is a science fiction short story by James Patrick Kelly, first published in 1995 in Asimov's Science Fiction magazine. The story explores themes of morality, alien culture, and the consequences of technological advancement. In the story, humans have developed a technology called "Transfer Transit" that allows for instantaneous transportation across vast distances. However, this technology requires the destruction of the original body and its recreation at the destination. The aliens, known as the "Dinosaurs," who possess this technology, have a strict moral code that requires the original body to be destroyed before the new one is created. This is in stark contrast to human morality, which values individuality and continuity of consciousness. The protagonist, Peter Bril, is a human who works for the agency responsible for implementing Transfer Transit. When a young woman, Marva, undergoes the transit procedure but unexpectedly survives in her original body, Peter is faced with a moral dilemma. According to Dinosaur customs, Marva's original body must be destroyed to maintain balance and ensure the integrity of the transit system. However, Peter struggles with the idea of euthanizing Marva to comply with the Dinosaur's code. The story delves into the complexities of morality and cultural differences, as well as the consequences of technological advancements that challenge traditional ethical frameworks. It forces the reader to confront difficult questions about the value of individual life, the nature of identity, and the responsibilities that come with wielding powerful technologies. "Think Like a Dinosaur" has been well-received by readers and critics alike for its thought-provoking exploration of these themes and its compelling narrative.
0