Of course, it is key to the plot, but it still seems odd
I just read a favorable review of COUNT TO A TRILLION, appearing, of all places, on a page devoted to mathematical fiction. Of course the math errors I made in the text were immediately detected, to my chagrin, including a misstatement of Fermat’s Last Theorem. Writers should do their homework.
However, I felt more puzzlement than chagrin when I read this paragraph toward the end:
http://kasmana.people.cofc.edu/MATHFICT/mfview.php?callnumber=mf1032
I’m wondering whether it is a sign of sexism that the entire crew of the ship (including all of the famous mathematicians) was male. Of course, it is key to the plot, but it still seems odd. Moreover, if it is sexist, the question is whether it is the author’s sexism (in the great sexist tradition of classic science fiction!) or whether he is just demonstrating that in a world whose superpowers are largely Hindu and Catholic, there would be no equality for women.
A writer is not allowed to argue with a review, and even if he were allowed, it would be ignoble and petty to argue with a favorable review.
But I am allowed to invite you to read the review and discuss it, dear readers.
About John C Wright
John C. Wright is a practicing philosopher, a retired attorney, newspaperman, and newspaper editor, and a published author of science fiction. Once a Houyhnhnm, he was expelled from the august ranks of purely rational beings when he fell in love; but retains an honorary title.
