The ThoughtNet:
An Ethics Worksheet for Pre-Crime
Section 1: Overview of the ThoughtNet
The world has never been safer than it is in 2074. There is very little crime. The majority of
cities are tranquil. No one carries a weapon. The streets are tidy. However, this was not an
accident. It was made possible by a potent new technology known as ThoughtNet.
ThoughtNet is a system that scans the brain. Each person connects their thoughts to a central
system via a tiny chip worn behind their ear. Dangerous ideas, such as plans to commit a
crime, steal, or harm someone, can be detected by the system. The local authorities receive a
warning if someone starts thinking violently or illegally.
People initially backed ThoughtNet. A safer world was what everyone desired. Before they
could do anything, terrorists were apprehended. Robberies were halted before they began.
People believed they were safe.
But eventually, people started to feel anxious.
