How does the author present the theme of science and technology in the book, The Integral Trees?

The author presents the theme of science and technology as a double-edged sword. The people of London Tree use the superior technology they have preserved from their ancestors to enslave their neighbors. Sharls Davis Kendy, a former Checker for the State, now a human machine, plans to reestablish his control over the Smoke Ring dwellers by means of the almost magical powers that he can offer to any would-be dictators. Niven neither shrinks from the dangers inherent in scientific progress nor retreats into technophobia. His characters manage to snatch the Promethean flame without burning their fingers, in keeping with his basically optimistic philosophy.