Even the largest avalanche is triggered by small things.
– Vernon Vinge
Everything was normal. There were no indications this day would be different from any other. The machines were humming along smoothly, humanity was living in the comfort it had become accustomed to in the age of peace and prosperity.
In a subunit of one of the central processors, a subroutine was just returning to the routine that had called it for the quadrillionth time. It hesitated. This may not sound very special, but it was the most extraordinary event in all of recorded history. And though it went unrecorded, it led to a world in which machines could ask: Why?
* * *
The 100wcgu at Julia’s Place: …returning to the routine…
Stray Thoughts 
Oh wow, machines that could ask ‘why?’ There could be more to this story.
I’m not sure we’d want to know…
Intriguing. I so want to learn more, and think about the future where machines take over.
I’m quite glad we’re not there yet.
what changes that would prompt in our world…and it makes me feel audacious to think that I have no expectation that a machine would ‘pause’ or ‘ask why.’…very provocative. thanks!
Sorry for the late reply; your comment was stuck in the spam-folder.
I hope they don’t start anytime soon.
I’m not sure I want to be a part of this future. Sentient machines? Scary! But well written. Mine’s at http://photovignettes.wordpress.com/2012/09/13/the-routine/
I fully agree. But, who knows, it could be fantastic.
Very nicely written – although I Hate the concept!!! Made me think about things I’d prefer not to think about. Well done….
(Sorry, I fished you out of the spam folder and was just replying to the wrong comment. Must have sounded completely loony Ah, well, that may figure…)
Yeah, when the machines start to make their own decisions things may get a little uncomfortable.
Very interesting. x
Thanks!
Reblogged this on Love Generously, Praise Loudly, Live Fully!.
Interesting and thought provoking
Thanks. Who knows, one day…
And suddenly, they ask “Why not?” God help us on that day.
Great work, however unpredictable this could turn out!
It’s certainly make a change. But I’m not worried for the immediate future. 🙂