What does the world owe them? The libertarians, or Yagaiists, would argue, the world owes them nothing. They cannot live on their own merits, and they aren’t willing to abide by the rules of civilization. However, there is the problem of the so-called beggars in Spain, who have nothing to give and want what you have – and may be willing to do violence to get it. If a person is not allowed to achieve or must operate under coercion, then that robs them of their spiritual dignity. In that philosophy, a person’s greatest dignity comes from being able to do what they do well, freely and without coercion, and to trade that skill with others. Like most of the Sleepers, Leisha subscribes to a philosophy popularized by Kenzo Yagai, who also invented the cheap energy source that is transforming the world. I have seen this book on many libertarian book lists, but it is my opinion that it considers but ultimately refutes libertarian ideals, at least those ideals that we often associate with Ayn Rand. I first read this novel long ago, and I just reread the novella it was based on to refresh my memory, so this review will focus on the novella, which is the opening section of the longer novel.
In the near future, Leisha is one of the first generation of children genetically engineered not to need sleep, and finds herself hated and feared because of the advantages that gives her. This review has spoilers and political content. Contracts are voluntary and mutually beneficial.
The basic tool of civilization is the contract. People trade what they do well, and everyone benefits. “A man’s worth to society and to himself doesn’t rest on what he thinks other people should do or be or feel, but on himself.
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