02255cam a22003373u 4500 28543 UtSlPG 20260610133642.0 m cr n 260607r2009||||utu|||||o|||||||||||||| d UtSlPG en iso639-1 PS Max, Frederic Rex Ex Machina Salt Lake City, UT : Project Gutenberg, 2009 1 online resource : multiple file formats text txt rdacontent computer c rdamedia online resource cr rdacarrier Produced from Fantastic Universe May 1954. Release date is 2009-04-08 Produced by Greg Weeks, Stephen Blundell and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net "Rex Ex Machina" by Frederic Max is a science fiction short story written in the mid-20th century. The narrative explores the themes of power, control, and the consequences of technology, particularly through the lens of mind control and hypnosis. Set against a backdrop of the Cold War, the story raises questions about human agency in the face of overwhelming technological advancement. The story unfolds as Francis, who is on his deathbed, writes a final letter to his son sharing his extraordinary past. He recounts his experience as an Army captain who discovered a Russian scientist's invention that could hypnotize the entire world. After assassinating the scientist to prevent the potential misuse of the device, he chooses to keep this powerful tool for himself and utilizes it to foster peace globally. As he concludes his letter, he instructs his son to use the mind-control machine wisely, hinting at the moral complexities and responsibilities that come with such power. The narrative interweaves elements of ethical contemplation and paternal wisdom, ultimately questioning the implications of wielding immense control over humanity. (This is an automatically generated summary.) Original publication data not identified Science fiction Short stories Produced from Fantastic Universe May 1954. https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/28543 69451 69451