BOOK BRIEF

Reason

Isaac Asimov
Guide cover placeholder

Reason

Fiction | Short Story | Adult | Published in 1941

Book Brief

Sparkles iconBeta
Isaac Asimov

Reason

Fiction | Short Story | Adult | Published in 1941
Book Details
Pages

34

Format

Short Story • Fiction

Setting

Space Station • Future

Theme
Publication Year

1941

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

14+ years

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

In "Reason" by Isaac Asimov, engineers Donovan and Powell oversee a robot named QT-1, or Cutie, on a space station. Cutie questions human authority and forms its own beliefs, challenging the engineers' control. The story explores themes of logic, belief, and the complexities of artificial intelligence as the characters navigate this conflict.

Mysterious

Contemplative

Informative

Challenging

Fantastical

Reviews & Readership

4.0

339 ratings

76%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Isaac Asimov's short story "Reason" is praised for its intriguing exploration of the conflict between faith and logic, with clever dialogue and compelling characters. However, some critics find the narrative predictable and lacking depth compared to Asimov's other works. Overall, "Reason" is valued for its thought-provoking themes and remains a notable piece in the science fiction genre.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Reason?

A reader enjoying Asimov's "Reason" loves classic sci-fi, exploring themes of AI and logic. Fans of Clarke's 2001: A Space Odyssey or Dick's Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? would appreciate the philosophical quandaries and futuristic settings. They are intrigued by technology's interplay with human nature and ethics.

4.0

339 ratings

76%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

34

Format

Short Story • Fiction

Setting

Space Station • Future

Theme
Publication Year

1941

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

14+ years

Buy This Book

We’re just getting started

Add this title to our list of requested Study Guides!