A review by suzemo
The Lifecycle of Software Objects by Ted Chiang

3.0

A nicely grounded story about dealing with a form of artificial intelligence developed to make pets. It brings out discussions and meditations on how we deal with non-human constructs (artificial or not) and how we treat other forms of intelligence. There is not a lot of action, but a lot of deep thinking with the treatment of "less" developed minds and their roles in our lives.

Bonus cookies for this quote:

"Women who work with animals hear this all the time: that their love for animals must arise out of a sublimated child-rearing urge. Ana’s tired of the stereotype. She likes children just fine, but they’re not the standard against which all other accomplishments should be measured. Caring for animals is worthwhile in and of itself, a vocation that need offer no apologies."