| If you present a computer with any sort of logical or metaphysical dilemma, it will blow up. Also, it's possible to write computer viruses that cause the machine to leap around, catch fire, and THEN blow up. And make absolutely sure you never spill anything on a computer, because it will either suddenly become alive (and will probably be out to get you), or it will blow up. Apparently Hollywood computers are built from the same violently unstable substance that Hollywood car bumpers are built from ("Don't nudge that shrub! The car will explode!"), and any interruption of normal processes will trigger self-immolation.
This problem won't be fixed in the far future, either. Irregardless of the vastly different properties of alien technology, Captain Kirk can blow up any computer from anywhere in the universe just by spending a few idle moments in conversation with it. Also, if you give a computer-enhanced individual the right command at the wrong time (such as prematurely activating their power-conservation function), they will blow up, as demonstrated on the Borg by Captain Picard. I could cite further examples, but I'm afraid mentioning them might cause my machine to blow up. |
