Interesting book about AI, though rather dated in some parts regarding technology (i.e. some amusing references to DOS). However, the story is about the characters and NOT the technology. A good one-time read.
Foundational Cyberpunk, December 19, 2005
Reviewer: Linda G. Walters "Ms. Code 3" (San Diego, CA USA)
"When Harlie Was One" must be considered one of the foundational cyberpunk works along side "Shockwave Rider". The slight updating of the background technology in "Release 2.0" does not detract one iota from the story and keeps it fresh. As a computer scientist who was probing the edges of cyberspace in the early 1970s, this was a wonderfully thought provoking work and even looking back on it today, it is still fresh. For example, when one of the scientists tells H.A.R.L.I.E. that "You're supposed to think!", the machine retorts, "What are you supposed to do?"
If you are involved in any way with the Internet or especially with AI, this is a must read.
Reviewer: Linda G. Walters "Ms. Code 3" (San Diego, CA USA)
"When Harlie Was One" must be considered one of the foundational cyberpunk works along side "Shockwave Rider". The slight updating of the background technology in "Release 2.0" does not detract one iota from the story and keeps it fresh. As a computer scientist who was probing the edges of cyberspace in the early 1970s, this was a wonderfully thought provoking work and even looking back on it today, it is still fresh. For example, when one of the scientists tells H.A.R.L.I.E. that "You're supposed to think!", the machine retorts, "What are you supposed to do?"
If you are involved in any way with the Internet or especially with AI, this is a must read.
Probably one of the funniest books I've ever read may times over the years. If you are into computers, this is for you. Think about having the computer in front of you now interact with you like a normal human, except this computer has access to ALL knowledge on the world wide web. Now, make this computer have an emotional mind of a five-year old child. Now, it thinks your it's parent... Awesome book, still relevant today!
