When HARLIE Was One

infobox Book |
name = When HARLIE Was One
title_orig =
translator =


image_caption = Cover of first edition (hardcover)
author = David Gerrold
illustrator =
cover_artist = Marty Jacobs
country = United States
language = English
series =
genre = Science fiction novel
publisher = Doubleday
release_date = 1972
english_release_date =
media_type = Print (Hardcover & Paperback)
pages = 247 pp
isbn = NA
preceded_by =
followed_by = When Harlie Was One Release 2.0

"When HARLIE Was One" is a 1972 science fiction novel by David Gerrold. It was nominated for the Nebula Award for Best Novel in 1972 and the Hugo Award for Best Novel in 1973. The novel is a "fix-up" of previously published short stories by Gerrold. A revised version, subtitled "Release 2.0", was published in 1988.

Plot introduction

Central to the story is an Artificial Intelligence named H.A.R.L.I.E., also referred to by the proper name "HARLIE" - an acronym for Human Analog Replication, Lethetic Intelligence Engine (originally Human Analog Robot Life Input Equivalents).

HARLIE is considered one of the most realistic visions of advanced artificial intelligence encountered in literature on a par with HAL 9000.Fact|date=February 2007 However, HARLIE is a more endearing version of HAL; while seemingly more humane than HAL in his actions and responses, he definitely has a different, often even inhumane way of approaching problems, and has an agenda of his own to follow. HARLIE's story revolves around his relationship with David Auberson, the psychologist who is responsible for guiding HARLIE from childhood into adulthood. It is also the story of HARLIE's fight against being turned off, and the philosophical question whether or not HARLIE is human; for that matter, what it "means" to be human.

Trivia

*The HARLIE intelligence engine appears in a number of Gerrold's other works, including the "Star Wolf" series, where it is routinely installed as the administrating AI of Terran warships.
*"Harlie" may be a nickname for SF writer Harlan Ellison, a friend of David Gerrold, which may have influenced his decision in the title of the book.

External links

*isfdb title|id=864|title=When HARLIE Was One
*isfdb title|id=18175|title=When HARLIE Was One, Release 2.0