Human Error

Raymond F. Jones's "Human Error" explores a chilling vision of a future where humanity has surrendered its imperfections to machines. When a catastrophic collision destroys an orbiting space station called the Wheel, the government's investigation uncovers something far more disturbing than mechanical failure—a fundamental question about what makes us human. Set in a world where cybernetics and automation dominate society, this science fiction tale examines the consequences of a culture that views human error not as inevitable, but as shameful. Through eyewitness accounts captured by amateur astronomers and recovered communications from the doomed vessels, the narrative builds toward a startling revelation about the government's true agenda: convincing the world that flawed, thinking humans should be replaced by perfect, obedient machines. Originally published in 1956, Jones's prescient work speaks to timeless anxieties about technological progress and what we risk losing when we prioritize efficiency over humanity. The story questions whether a society of error-free machines truly represents progress, or if our capacity to fail, learn, and adapt is what ultimately defines our value. Perfect for listeners who enjoy thought-provoking science fiction that challenges assumptions about progress and human nature, "Human Error" delivers both compelling narrative intrigue and philosophical depth.