The Magic Button

[drscott]

One of the conventional types of science fiction story has the hero discover some "magic" device -- a time-traveling watch, invisibility, teleportation. Usually this leads to trouble -- rarely does the hero act cautiously in exploring the parameters of this new power.

So here's my question: suppose you came into possession of a magic button that allowed you to painlessly remove from existence any person or persons of your choice at the moment you pushed it. Would you use it? And on who?

Comments

[dr-scott.livejournal.com]

You bring up some fun points for a story to explore. The lack of accountability is why the idea is so evil. It would be interesting to have the main character do something stupid, allow the device to be duplicated, then watch the world change as the consequences reverberate. Sounds rather like Bester's The Stars My Destination.

[dr-scott.livejournal.com]

Beware HTML tags you don't really understand. This picture ended up halfway into the next reply!

[excessor.livejournal.com]

LOL