Have you ever wished for a magical computer that can instantly solve all your problems and fulfill your every desire? Well, imagine a world where there exists a computer that has the power to zap away all your worries and make your dreams come true. This magical computer is not bound by the laws of physics or the limitations of technology. It operates on a level beyond our comprehension, harnessing the power of the universe itself. With a simple command, you can zap away any obstacle that stands in your way. Whether it's a difficult task at work, a challenging math problem, or even a broken heart, this magical computer has the ability to provide you with the solution you seek. It knows exactly what you need and has the power to make it happen.
It knows exactly what you need and has the power to make it happen. But with great power comes great responsibility. The more we rely on this magical computer to solve our problems, the more we lose touch with our own abilities and resources.
Starships without computers?
Say I've got a sci-fi setting where I have one faction using relatively advanced technology (think The Expanse, or pre-Covenant war UNSC from Halo, fusion rockets and high-yield magnetic accelerator cannons), but nothing that we couldn't theoretically build given a few more decades or centuries to advance. Then there's another faction that effectively has magic and magitech. The magical faction comes up with a way to use their magic to disable any computer more complex and compact than a 1940s-1950s era analog computer. Civilian and industrial centers behind the front lines are unaffected by this magic, and so ships can be CONSTRUCTED with the aid of computers, but if they don't want to be crippled as soon as they get into combat, they need to be able to function without them, or at least without any that aren't a room-sized monstrosity only capable of handling a few kilobytes. Could this actually be done? Could you have a ship equipped with fusion reactors and all the rest actually function with just clever engineering, human oversight, and clockwork computers? What issues would arise?
Follow 25.3k 10 10 gold badges 52 52 silver badges 103 103 bronze badges asked Aug 18, 2019 at 8:08 FlyingLemmingSoup FlyingLemmingSoup 3,257 2 2 gold badges 10 10 silver badges 20 20 bronze badges $\endgroup$$\begingroup$ What is your definition of what counts as a "computer?" You can generate orbital mechanics with a slide rule and some paper, to say nothing of an abacus, and simple mechanical tools like a sextant can keep you navigated when flying between planets. $\endgroup$
Aug 19, 2019 at 16:55$\begingroup$ Comments are not for extended discussion; this conversation has been moved to chat. $\endgroup$
Aug 20, 2019 at 3:29$\begingroup$ What range does the computer disabling magic have? Could the ships use analog radio and a tight beam to send all measurements and information to some control ship a few thousand kilometers away, which has computers and does all calculations and sends instructions or even partially remote controls the ship at the front ? $\endgroup$
Aug 20, 2019 at 9:38$\begingroup$ This is not enough for an answer but is a direction you might look in. Check out the episode of DS9 called Explorers, which features a Bajoran "lightship." A sextant is used to navigate and it's extremely low tech. Just an interesting concept. $\endgroup$
Aug 21, 2019 at 4:18 $\begingroup$ Have you seen Battlestar Galactica? $\endgroup$ Aug 21, 2019 at 9:43We become reliant on its magic, forgetting that we have the power to overcome challenges and achieve greatness on our own. Furthermore, the magical computer is not infallible. It may provide us with immediate solutions, but they may not always be the best ones. It operates based on algorithms and calculations, without taking into consideration the nuances and complexities of human existence. It is important for us to remember that true growth and progress come from facing challenges head-on and learning from our mistakes. While the idea of a magical computer that can zap away all our problems is undoubtedly enticing, it is crucial to not lose sight of our own abilities and the value of hard work and perseverance. Instead of relying on a magical solution, let us embrace the challenges that come our way and use them as opportunities for growth and self-improvement. Only then can we truly achieve our full potential and find fulfillment in our lives..
Reviews for "Discovering the Magic of Zap: Exploring the Secrets of Computer Programming"
1. John - 2/5 stars - I found "Zap the magical computer" to be quite disappointing. The plot was cliched and predictable, with no real surprises or twists. The characters were poorly developed and lacked depth, making it difficult to connect or care about their journey. The writing style was also lacking, with awkward and stilted dialogue. Overall, I was underwhelmed by this book and would not recommend it to others.
2. Sarah - 3/5 stars - I had high hopes for "Zap the magical computer" based on the intriguing premise, but unfortunately, it fell short for me. The pacing was inconsistent, with some parts dragging on while others felt rushed. The world-building was minimal, leaving many unanswered questions and a lack of depth. Additionally, the dialogue felt forced and unnatural, making it difficult to become fully immersed in the story. While "Zap the magical computer" had its moments of entertainment, it ultimately didn't live up to its potential.
3. David - 2/5 stars - "Zap the magical computer" was a book that promised much but failed to deliver. The plot lacked originality and felt like a rehash of familiar tropes. I found the characters to be one-dimensional and unremarkable, making it hard to connect with their struggles. Furthermore, the writing style was uninspiring, with the narrative lacking any real depth or nuance. Overall, I was disappointed by this book and wouldn't recommend it to others seeking a unique and engaging read.
4. Emma - 2/5 stars - "Zap the magical computer" left me feeling unsatisfied. The story lacked a strong central conflict and failed to capture my interest. The dialogue was mediocre, with flat and unconvincing exchanges that didn't contribute much to the character development or the overall plot. While there were some intriguing concepts introduced, they were never fully explored or given the attention they deserved. Overall, I found "Zap the magical computer" to be a forgettable read that didn't leave a lasting impression.