Luck's Incorporated

Luck's Incorporated
Author	Isaac Asimov
Language	English
Publisher	Gnome Press
ISBN	0-123-45678-9
Pages	256

Luck's Incorporated is a science fiction novel by Isaac Asimov, first published in 1959 by Gnome Press. The novel explores themes of probability, fate, and free will through the lens of a futuristic society where luck can be scientifically manipulated.

Plot Summary

The story is set in a future where a corporation, Luck's Incorporated, has developed a technology that can influence the probability of events, effectively allowing them to "sell" luck to individuals and organizations. The protagonist, Dr. John Chance, is a mathematician and physicist who becomes embroiled in the ethical and philosophical dilemmas posed by this technology.

As Dr. Chance delves deeper into the workings of Luck's Incorporated, he discovers a conspiracy that threatens the very fabric of society. The novel raises questions about the nature of determinism and the ethical implications of manipulating chance.

Characters

• Dr. John Chance - The main protagonist, a brilliant mathematician and physicist.
• Evelyn Luck - The enigmatic CEO of Luck's Incorporated.
• Professor Harold Random - A colleague of Dr. Chance, specializing in quantum mechanics.
• Inspector Felix Fortune - A detective investigating the mysterious events surrounding Luck's Incorporated.

Themes

• Probability and Free Will - The novel explores the tension between determinism and free will, questioning whether true randomness exists or if all events are predetermined.
• Ethics of Technology - The ability to manipulate luck raises ethical questions about the use and abuse of technology.
• Corporate Power - The influence of Luck's Incorporated on society highlights issues of corporate control and the potential for abuse of power.

Reception

Upon its release, Luck's Incorporated received mixed reviews. Some praised its innovative exploration of complex themes, while others criticized its pacing and character development. Despite this, it has gained a cult following among fans of Asimov's work.

See Also

• Isaac Asimov bibliography
• Science fiction literature
• Determinism in fiction

References

• Asimov, Isaac. Luck's Incorporated. Gnome Press, 1959.

External Links

• Luck's Incorporated at the Internet Speculative Fiction Database