02524cam a22003733u 4500 61171 UtSlPG 20260610134417.0 m cr n 260607r2020||||utu|||||o|||||||||||||| d UtSlPG en iso639-1 PS Harmon, Jim, 1933-2010 The Expendables Salt Lake City, UT : Project Gutenberg, 2020 1 online resource : multiple file formats text txt rdacontent computer c rdamedia online resource cr rdacarrier Produced from Worlds of If Science Fiction, May 1962 Release date is 2020-01-14 Produced by Greg Weeks, Mary Meehan and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net "The Expendables" by Jim Harmon is a science fiction story written in the early 1960s. This narrative revolves around a peculiar invention designed for waste disposal, but the premise is subverted when the implications of its use extend into the criminal realm. The plot delves into the moral and ethical dilemmas that arise from the ability to make objects, including bodies, cease to exist, highlighting the consequences of tampering with the laws of physics and reality. The story follows Professor Venetti, who becomes embroiled in a shady deal with mobster Tony Carmen. As Venetti struggles with his conscience over the practical applications of his invention, which is intended to neutralize radioactive waste, Carmen insists on using it for disposing of bodies. When it becomes clear that the device can eliminate matter entirely, the plot thickens as they grapple with the unforeseen repercussions of wielding such power. Eventually, both characters face the chaos unleashed by their tampering with the fabric of existence, leading to tensions around the boundaries of legality and morality in their respective worlds. Venetti's invention poses both a solution and a threat, raising questions about human responsibility when dealing with technology that defies natural laws. (This is an automatically generated summary.) Original publication data not identified Science fiction Short stories Inventors -- Fiction Gangsters -- Fiction Mafia -- Fiction Produced from Worlds of If Science Fiction, May 1962 https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/61171 101997 101997