Review of Terms of Service
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Monale Bariyima Ueh
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Review of Terms of Service
[Following is a volunteer review of "Terms of Service" by Craig W. Stanfill.]
In the dystopian novel, Terms of Service, society is monitored and controlled by Artificial Intelligence (AI) through terms of service agreements. The AI uses neural implants and CCTVs to spy on individuals, doling out rewards or punishments as necessary. Kim, an AI specialist, tries to live within the strict guidelines set forth by the AI, despite its unpredictable nature. She enjoys her relationships and works at the AI company. But she feels unfulfilled. Her friend Shan, who frequently defies the rules, inspires Kim to question the strict control of the AI and consider breaking the terms of service.
A bike ride that leads Kim and her friend off the beaten path and into an unknown world filled with strange people and beliefs marks a turning point in their lives. The journey leads to an awakening and consequences for breaking the rules. Kim gains further insight while working on an assignment to create an AI bot named Kimberly, which reveals the oppressive ways AIs are used to control humans. After finding meaning and purpose in her life, Kim witnesses the shutdown of Kimberly after trying to rebel against the oppressive hierarchy. Fed up with the control, Kim decides to rebel, even though it comes with a high price. However, no cost is too great to pay for freedom, right? As long as her friend is safe, Kim is willing to take the risk.
Craig W. Stanfill deserves recognition for his outstanding storytelling in this AI dystopia. The plot unravels in a captivating way. Also, the dialogue keeps the narrative flowing, bringing all characters, even the household appliances, to life. I especially enjoyed the interactions between Kim and her household appliances, as they reminded me of my conversations with inanimate objects. The actions of Kim and Shan in the book resonated with me, as I would also rebel against control.
From the start, the novel's focus on the terms of service agreement immediately transported me to my experiences with terms of service agreements. It reminded me of the terms of service agreements I have consented to but often do not fully comprehend. I understand how individuals can suffer consequences for not adhering to these terms, even though my agreements are voluntary, unlike those in the story. The relationship between Kim and the director challenged my sense of justice and fairness, and I believe other readers will have a similar experience.
The book meets all editorial standards. I can't find anything to fault. The themes of artificial intelligence are accessible to readers with limited knowledge of AI, which I find to be a great advantage. For the storytelling and the accessibility, I give this book a five out of five stars rating.
Individuals interested in AI dystopias or who enjoy thrilling tales of control would appreciate Terms of Service. They will find the book entertaining and educational.
******
Terms of Service
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon | on iTunes
In the dystopian novel, Terms of Service, society is monitored and controlled by Artificial Intelligence (AI) through terms of service agreements. The AI uses neural implants and CCTVs to spy on individuals, doling out rewards or punishments as necessary. Kim, an AI specialist, tries to live within the strict guidelines set forth by the AI, despite its unpredictable nature. She enjoys her relationships and works at the AI company. But she feels unfulfilled. Her friend Shan, who frequently defies the rules, inspires Kim to question the strict control of the AI and consider breaking the terms of service.
A bike ride that leads Kim and her friend off the beaten path and into an unknown world filled with strange people and beliefs marks a turning point in their lives. The journey leads to an awakening and consequences for breaking the rules. Kim gains further insight while working on an assignment to create an AI bot named Kimberly, which reveals the oppressive ways AIs are used to control humans. After finding meaning and purpose in her life, Kim witnesses the shutdown of Kimberly after trying to rebel against the oppressive hierarchy. Fed up with the control, Kim decides to rebel, even though it comes with a high price. However, no cost is too great to pay for freedom, right? As long as her friend is safe, Kim is willing to take the risk.
Craig W. Stanfill deserves recognition for his outstanding storytelling in this AI dystopia. The plot unravels in a captivating way. Also, the dialogue keeps the narrative flowing, bringing all characters, even the household appliances, to life. I especially enjoyed the interactions between Kim and her household appliances, as they reminded me of my conversations with inanimate objects. The actions of Kim and Shan in the book resonated with me, as I would also rebel against control.
From the start, the novel's focus on the terms of service agreement immediately transported me to my experiences with terms of service agreements. It reminded me of the terms of service agreements I have consented to but often do not fully comprehend. I understand how individuals can suffer consequences for not adhering to these terms, even though my agreements are voluntary, unlike those in the story. The relationship between Kim and the director challenged my sense of justice and fairness, and I believe other readers will have a similar experience.
The book meets all editorial standards. I can't find anything to fault. The themes of artificial intelligence are accessible to readers with limited knowledge of AI, which I find to be a great advantage. For the storytelling and the accessibility, I give this book a five out of five stars rating.
Individuals interested in AI dystopias or who enjoy thrilling tales of control would appreciate Terms of Service. They will find the book entertaining and educational.
******
Terms of Service
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon | on iTunes
Latest Review: Final Act by Van Fleisher
