DM

“(Religious worldview or scientific view) It would be nice to have both, but suppose that isn't possible? Which one should we keep? It's not a straightforward question is it? Terrible things are done in the name of religion, without a doubt, but it was not religion but science that brought the world itself to the brink of destruction.” —The Holy Machine.

I am a Christian, and it is ironic how much this book gets right. Mocking and scorn, but truth exist in the simple context that I believe that I am a poor miserable sinner that is forgiven through Jesus Christ His only Son. This book balances mocking of many faiths, and yet the realization that one can not live on knowledge alone. Sermon over.

What happens when AI becomes aware? What happens when humans become addicted to growing technology? Many good questions and thoughts, but you are left to decide for yourself.

Interesting read on the instant mass media generation that we live in. It is a YA book, but I found myself pondering some hard truths about media. Media doesn't tell us how to think, but it is amazing how tailored media is to each individual. Even by posting this review, my Goodreads account will never be the same. Fairly easy read, not a huge fan of the small bits of language and innuendo, but is what it is. A YA that is trying jump in and get what it can. You will think twice the next time you see a tailored ad.

Important Point: There are some shenanigans in how this book was published. Borrow it from a friend or get it from your library. If you purchased it, try to let your friends borrow it. The book has been published, read it. Not reading the book won't help.

State Powers/Federal Powers
Small Town Values/Striking out on your own
Parental Esteem/Parental Awareness
Forced Government Change/Local Environment Change
A writer's first draft/A writer's final publication

These are just a few of the conversations you will want to have after reading Watchman. These are also conversations that we are having in 2015. We are all bigots in our own ways, but the thing that has changed is that we can acknowledge we are all obstinate. We need to listen to each other, care for one another, and make changes in our communities so the government doesn't have to overreach. The best and worst change we can make is our family. How do your children see you? How will your children follow the watchman that has been set?