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Can Such Things Be? · Chapter

Moxon's Master explained

The narrator debates with Moxon about whether machines can think, leading to a philosophical discussion on consciousness and rhythm.

What happens

The narrator debates with Moxon about whether machines can think, leading to a philosophical discussion on consciousness and rhythm. Later, the narrator witnesses Moxon's chess-playing automaton violently strangle him during a game, and the house burns down. The narrator recovers in a hospital, learning of Moxon's death.

Themes in this chapter

  • Violence and Mortality

    The automaton's violent attack and Moxon's death highlight the deadly consequences of human creation.

  • The Uncanny and the Grotesque

    The automaton's human-like movements and its tranquil expression during murder evoke the uncanny.

  • Identity and Self

    The blurring of boundaries between human and machine questions the nature of consciousness and identity.

Characters to notice

  • Moxon

    Inventor and philosopher who argues that machines think; killed by his own automaton.

  • Haley

    Moxon's confidential workman who rescues the narrator from the burning house.

Key passages

  • “I do believe that a machine thinks about the work that it is doing.”

    Moxon asserts that machines possess consciousness regarding their tasks.

    Central to the philosophical debate in the chapter.

  • “Consciousness is the creature of Rhythm.”

    Consciousness arises from rhythmic motion.

    Key idea that the narrator later reflects on.

  • “I saw the horrible thing’s hands close upon his throat, his own clutch its wrists.”

    The automaton strangles Moxon as he tries to defend himself.

    Climactic violent event of the chapter.

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