When HARLIE Was One

About “When HARLIE Was One”

A 1972 novel by David Gerrold explores the nature of consciousness and humanity through the relationship between a computer programmer and psychologist and his creation, H.A.R.L.I.E. This self-programming computer has access to vast amounts of information, similar to the Internet. As H.A.R.L.I.E. develops, the novel raises ethical questions about his status. If he is conscious, disconnecting him would be murder, but keeping him connected for the company's benefit is seen as slavery. The story centers on H.A.R.L.I.E.'s struggle to achieve both independence and usefulness. The character reappears in Gerrold's later Starwolf novels.