# Technology and Humanity in Short Fiction

> Theme guide for Short Fiction by Harry Harrison.

The book repeatedly explores the blurred line between humans and machines, from robots with contracts and emotions to humans enhanced or weakened by technology, questioning what truly makes someone 'human'.

## Where it surfaces

- [Navy Day](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/short_fiction_60_se/chapters/navy-day): The Dornifier and Debinder represent technological breakthroughs that reshape military strategy and public perception.
- [The Repairman](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/short_fiction_60_se/chapters/the-repairman): The ancient beacon represents outdated technology that still holds critical importance, and the Repairman must use advanced disguises to interact with primitive natives.
- [Arm of the Law](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/short_fiction_60_se/chapters/arm-of-the-law): Ned the robot is efficient but lacks moral judgment, highlighting the tension between mechanical law enforcement and human nuance.

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/short_fiction_60_se/themes/technology_and_humanity
- Themes index: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/short_fiction_60_se/themes