Damned If You Don't

"Damned If You Don't" by Randall Garrett is a science fiction novel written in the early 1960s. The story revolves around a brilliant engineer named Sam Bending, who invents a revolutionary device called the Converter, capable of producing substantial electricity from water through fusion. The narrative explores themes of innovation, corporate greed, and the societal consequences of technological advancements. As the plot unfolds, Bending faces ominous threats after his invention garners the attention of the powerful Power Utilities corporation, which fears the impact of the Converter on its monopoly over energy. Following a series of break-ins and the loss of his prototypes, Bending finds himself embroiled in a dangerous struggle involving not just corporate espionage but also government intervention. The story ultimately poses a moral dilemma about whether the benefits of such a powerful invention should be suppressed to protect the economy and society from the potential chaos that could ensue from its unchecked release into the market. Through suspense and a touch of humor, Garrett's tale examines the intricate balance between technological advancement and its broader implications on humanity.