A Glimpse into a Possible Future
Helen Phillips’ novel “Hum” offers a chilling vision of a near-future world where AI-based robots, called “hums,” have permeated society. The story follows May Webb, a mother navigating this new reality after losing her job to AI. The narrative explores the consequences of advanced technology on privacy, family life, and the human experience.
Key Elements of the Story
- AI robots called “hums” have replaced many human jobs and are ubiquitous in society
- May undergoes facial recognition obscuring surgery performed by a hum
- The family visits a Disneyland-like botanic garden, one of the few remaining natural spaces
- Themes of surveillance, climate change, and loss of privacy are central to the plot
The Broader Implications
Phillips’ work serves as a warning about the potential dangers of unchecked technological advancement. By presenting a world where AI has become deeply integrated into daily life, the novel prompts readers to consider the ethical implications of current technological trends. It raises questions about the balance between progress and maintaining human autonomy and connection to the natural world.
