Oneness

"Oneness" by James H. Schmitz is a science fiction story that takes place on a future Earth, ruled by a powerful organization called the Machine. This organization has controlled the population for 150 years. The story follows Rainbolt, who is part of the Mars Convicts group. He tries to bring new ideas of freedom, called Oneness, to Earth. The Machine captures Rainbolt and tries to get secrets from him about their new stardrive through drugging, hypnosis, and nerve stimulation. But Rainbolt has a special power because of his Oneness philosophy. He can create shared experiences with others. As Rainbolt pushes for changes in the world, the Machine begins to slowly change. The story makes us think about freedom and control, as Rainbolt unknowingly changes the way the Machine thinks, setting up a new era of rule on Earth.