Randall Garrett's "By Proxy" is a science fiction short tale. It is a thought-provoking examination of the ramifications of sophisticated technology and the ethical quandaries that occur as a result of its application. The plot centres around a protagonist who finds caught in a complex and morally difficult scenario in a future where technology allows for direct cerebral connections between humans. The core idea includes the potential to feel another person's sensations and emotions via a brain proxy connection. This technology poses significant concerns regarding empathy, consent, and the limits of personal experience. As the plot progresses, the protagonist is dragged into a conspiracy involving the illegal use of this neural proxy technology. They must consider the ethical consequences of vicariously experiencing another person's life, emotions, and even criminal conduct. This creates a moral quandary for the protagonist, forcing them to confront their own ideals and feeling of responsibility. "By Proxy" is a cautionary story concerning the potential exploitation of technological technology and the blurred distinctions between personal agency and other people's experiences. Randall Garrett's story deftly addresses the ethical issues of a future in which empathy can be shared but at the risk of jeopardizing one's own ideals.
