Dangers of Technological Advancement

Throughout the novel, the author uses Helena's work to invent and develop her memory chair as a means of explore the potential dangers of technological advancement. While Helena's concept involving the preservation and transference of memories initiates with her desire to help Alzheimer's patients, once the technology lands in the hands of greedy and maniacal Marcus Slade, her pure intentions go awry. When Slade realizes the power of Helena's chair, he realizes if he seizes control of the technology, he can finally achieve the level of fame, influence, and power he has always desired. As the novel progresses, and Slade's use of the chair becomes increasingly dangerous, the world begins using the technology as a form of global warfare. Rather than using Helena's invention to better or preserve human lives, individuals like Slade, and eventually competing governmental systems, implement the chair for societal...