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What is POSAT?

Written by Phyllis Sterling Smith

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Science FictionShort storiesSecret societies

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About this book

"What is POSAT?" by Phyllis Sterling Smith is a science fiction novella written in the early 1950s. This intriguing story revolves around a mysterious secret society called POSAT, which promises its members mastery of all knowledge and solutions to life's problems. The narrative is centered around three diverse characters—Bill Evans, Elizabeth Arnable, and Donald Alford—who each respond to an advertisement for membership in POSAT, sparking their journey into an enigmatic world that blends metaphysical concepts with scientific inquiry. The plot follows Donald Alford, a research physicist, as he delves deeper into the workings of POSAT after receiving an invitation for a personal interview. Initially skeptical, Donald discovers that POSAT is not merely a typical secret society but instead a group founded by a super-genius from the Renaissance era who has been safeguarding advanced scientific knowledge for centuries. As he explores the society’s secrets, he grapples with questions surrounding human nature, morality, and the pursuit of knowledge. Ultimately, Donald’s journey leads him to confront grand ideas about the responsibilities that come with knowledge and the potential consequences of scientific advancements in a world fraught with conflict, culminating in a choice between skepticism and acceptance of this deeper truth.

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Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in What is POSAT?, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 8 hours
  • intermediate
  • mysterious
  • philosophical
  • thought-provoking

Phyllis Sterling Smith's early 1950s science fiction novella, "What is POSAT?", introduces a mysterious secret society promising universal knowledge and life solutions. The story follows three distinct individuals, particularly research physicist Donald Alford, as they are drawn into POSAT's enigmatic world blending metaphysics and science. Donald's initial skepticism gives way to the astonishing discovery that POSAT was founded by a Renaissance super-genius safeguarding advanced scientific knowledge for centuries. His journey forces him to confront profound questions about human nature, morality, and the ethical responsibilities accompanying scientific progress. Ultimately, Donald must choose between his rational skepticism and the acceptance of a deeper, transformative truth.

“No specific quotes are provided in the automatically generated summary. However, the narrative's focus suggests key dialogue or internal monologues would emphasize themes of knowledge, responsibility, the nature of truth, and the tension between skepticism and acceptance.”

Key themes

The Pursuit and Responsibility of Knowledge
This theme is central, exploring not only the quest for ultimate knowledge promised by POSAT but also the profound ethical and moral burdens that accompany such advanced understanding. Donald's journey highlights the idea that knowledge is not merely power, but also a significant responsibility, especially when it concerns humanity's future and scientific advancements.
Skepticism vs. Acceptance/Faith
This theme drives Donald Alford's personal journey. He begins as a research physicist, grounded in skepticism and scientific rationality. His encounter with POSAT forces him to confront the limits of his empirical worldview and consider the possibility of truths beyond conventional understanding, culminating in a choice between maintaining his skepticism or accepting a deeper, more profound reality.
Human Nature and Morality
As Donald delves into POSAT's secrets, he is forced to question fundamental aspects of human nature and the very fabric of morality. The existence of advanced knowledge, particularly in a 'world fraught with conflict,' compels an examination of humanity's capacity for both good and destruction, and how moral frameworks must adapt to new scientific capabilities.

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How does the concept of a Renaissance super-genius safeguarding knowledge for centuries impact our understanding of historical progress and intellectual secrecy?

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