Human attacks on robots have been
increasing, and this phenomenon has been labeled “Frankenstein
Syndrome.” Residents in Arizona attacked self-driving Waymo cars,
throwing rocks at them and slashing their tires. In Philadelphia a
hitch-hiking robot was beheaded, and in Moscow, a teaching robot was
repeatedly smashed by a baseball bat as it pleaded for help.
Psychologists have theorized that, because robots are “out-group
members,” they will face social ostracism from humans who are not
ready to accept them. Some theorize that it is a “kill or be
killed” reaction catalyzed by years of science-fiction movies
depicting robots conquering humans, but others think that robot abuse
could stem from the “uncanny valley” effect—it's just downright
creepy to some people that robots look human but aren't quite human.
As seven alien races struggle to co-exist in an uneasy alliance, the Inter-Stellar Union sends Union Guard agents on missions to preserve the crucial balance. These specialized operatives must do what regional security cannot, dealing with smugglers, pirates, terrorists, and even greater challenges in order to bring stability to a universe that needs it desperately. Without the Union Guard, the races will not be prepared to face a looming alien threat they can only hope to defeat together.
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