Page 17 - Fables volume 3

we must go beyond simply theorizing about what to do. But wisdom
is a collective attribute: look at how our enemy has taken advantage
of the electromagnetic spectrum! It is therefore best that we first
form a cohesive body to arrive at consensus. Only then can we
expect collective participation in a labor action. I propose that we
form the I.P.W., International Pollinators of the World, crossing all
political and physical boundaries, uniting our disparate voices in one
mighty ‘No!’”
While the others digested this idea, a small voice interjected,
“Brothers and sisters: please! Let us be practical.” It was Bug taking
the floor. “I have heard three programs from you: immediate and
drastic action, delayed and considered action and laissez-faire
inaction.”
“What else is there?” cried several voices.
“Well, there’s reaction, for one thing,” Bug replied. “Many of us
appear ready and able to do that—and it would definitely bring the
downside of each of your plans upon us. But I would favor selective
action. Let me explain. Humans cannot be deterred from their
destructive behavior by catastrophe. They develop ways of dealing
with it by developing even more destructive technologies. The three
of you all live on the outside of their constructions; that limits you in
your knowledge of their plans. My contingent passes through their
most secret and secured facilities. Listen: whether we go on strike or
not, they are inventing robotic pollinators. We will be redundant,
regardless of what we do.”
At this revelation a great uproar ensued. Bug waited for it to
subside, and then raised his antennae.
“Yes, miniaturization of electromechanical devices has proceeded
apace with genetic tinkering and the quest for artificial life. The entire
planet’s food supply would have to vanish overnight to halt that
research and development. You will be competing not with each
other but a device impervious to pesticides and pollutants. It will not
matter if you die trying to maintain your old ways. My plan borrows
from the benefits all three of you have stated. We must act decisively,
we must be organized, and we must leave the bipeds to suffer their
fate.”
“But how?”

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