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

[squalidbear.livejournal.com]

I'm totally holding your hand and pushing it on the button for W, Condi, Cheney, et al.

*blip*

A different button, please.

[airporter.livejournal.com]

Now boys, let's play nice.

I think, further, I'd rather have a button that causes everyone to take a simple approach to everything: thou shalt not steal. Shades of religion, yes, but it really is quite simple.

Most crimes can be boiled down to some form of theft, as can many of the ethical and moral issues we all face on a day to day basis. Murder, fraud, abuse, disrespect, lying, whatever.

Give me the button that eliminates all forms of theft. I'll push that one immediately. Never mind the global economy; if it's based on theft (as much of ours does appear to be) it needs a revamp anyway.