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AXION: The Memory Rights Uprising
The Memory Rights Uprising is a provocative cautionary tale set in the very near future when dramatic breakthroughs in neuroscience and the first complete molecular decoding of a human memory triggers an unthinkable gold rush to privatise human memory.
A high stakes courtroom battle parallels the dramatic rise of a militant memory rights movement which will stop at nothing to block the world's first 'memory tax'. The neurotech giant Cortx will stop at nothing to impose one.
Gil Hinchliff is a renegade attorney prepared to risk his life and sanity to expose the grisly atrocities of Cortx as they conduct human memory experiments off the grid of ethical oversight or accountability. Cortx is determined to use the courts and patent law to stake a property claim - and an ongoing financial claim - to a class of enhanced human memories which they insist belong to them.
The Memory Rights Alliance (MRA) - co-founded by Hinchliff - is at the vanguard of a new dimension of human rights battles on a global scale.
A high stakes courtroom battle parallels the dramatic rise of a militant memory rights movement which will stop at nothing to block the world's first 'memory tax'. The neurotech giant Cortx will stop at nothing to impose one.
Gil Hinchliff is a renegade attorney prepared to risk his life and sanity to expose the grisly atrocities of Cortx as they conduct human memory experiments off the grid of ethical oversight or accountability. Cortx is determined to use the courts and patent law to stake a property claim - and an ongoing financial claim - to a class of enhanced human memories which they insist belong to them.
The Memory Rights Alliance (MRA) - co-founded by Hinchliff - is at the vanguard of a new dimension of human rights battles on a global scale.
298 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 13, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 4 of 4 reviews
February 5, 2025
The neurotech giant Cortx has created nootropics, a medical substance that can improve people’s thinking, learning, and most importantly, their memory. A group of tourists at the Grand Canyon, ecotourists in the Borneo rain forest waiting to see the last Orangutan living in the wild, military recruits, and elementary school children, are all using the gas, delivered via a mask attached to a cylinder or through the vents in the classroom, to make their day truly ‘unforgettable.’ Some are even taking advantage of the ultimate cinema experience, known as Eidetic Cinema, which makes the colors and sounds in movies more vivid while they watch movies like Gone with the Wind.
Gil Hinchliff is an attorney and co-founder of the Memory Rights Alliance (MRA), a global human rights organization. They are trying to stop Cortx from privatizing human memory and have requested a judicial review to block the world’s first memory tax. Ken Marshall is the lead attorney for Cortx. Cortx is determined to use the courts and patent law to claim the rights to these enhanced memories, which they insist belong to them. The courtroom drama that results will determine the future of Cortx and these enhanced memories.
To live life to its fullest and never forget the important moments, humanity has taken to using nootropics to improve their lives. In “AXION: The Memory Rights Uprising,” David Shulman gives readers a story set in London in the very near future where breakthroughs in neuroscience and molecular decoding of a human memory have redefined its value. This society is big on memories and uses everything including games, apps, and Neurogram Kiosks to enhance it. Neuro-geeks can’t wait to have neural implants and people who don’t use nootropics are ‘memory shamed.’ Cortx is claiming ownership of those enhanced memories, and the Memory Rights Alliance is leading the charge to stop them and expose the unethical human experiments that have been taking place behind the scenes.
The idea of having to fight for humanity’s rights to their memories is what drew me to this novel. Advances in science and technology often come with a drawback and it’s usually a person or corporation out to make a profit out of it. In this case, people can have their enhanced memories as long as they pay the price, or in this case, a tax. I’m a big fan of futuristic stories and after reading about the technologies in the second ‘scene,’ such as having to swipe a card on the wall to activate the shower and transforming the shower curtain into a computer screen to watch the news, I was hooked. I was certainly not prepared for the jaw-dropping plot twist at the end.
Readers get a chilling glimpse into a future where memories—perhaps the most intimate aspect of our humanity—are no longer sacred.
Schulman combines the topics of privacy, autonomy, and the fundamental value of human experience to create tension between technological advancement and human rights. It raises critical questions about the boundaries of personal freedom in an increasingly digital and monetized world. The narrative is nonlinear, but the flashbacks provide the character development necessary to understand each character’s motivations. The poetic language adds depth to the scenes, such as during Gil’s mother’s funeral:
… – but the sound of rocks and earth hitting the surface of a wooden coffin six feet below creates a reverberating and unforgettable bass note of finality – if not closure.
Overall, “AXION: The Memory Rights Uprising” by David Shulman is a riveting and thought-provoking exploration of the ethical, political, and societal implications of memory manipulation. This compelling and cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked technological progress is recommended for fans of speculative fiction who also appreciate high-stakes courtroom drama.
To remember is essential to learn from past mistakes, to fade from memory is essential to transcend hardship, pain, and grief. The need to remember can be just as important as the need to forget.
Gil Hinchliff is an attorney and co-founder of the Memory Rights Alliance (MRA), a global human rights organization. They are trying to stop Cortx from privatizing human memory and have requested a judicial review to block the world’s first memory tax. Ken Marshall is the lead attorney for Cortx. Cortx is determined to use the courts and patent law to claim the rights to these enhanced memories, which they insist belong to them. The courtroom drama that results will determine the future of Cortx and these enhanced memories.
To live life to its fullest and never forget the important moments, humanity has taken to using nootropics to improve their lives. In “AXION: The Memory Rights Uprising,” David Shulman gives readers a story set in London in the very near future where breakthroughs in neuroscience and molecular decoding of a human memory have redefined its value. This society is big on memories and uses everything including games, apps, and Neurogram Kiosks to enhance it. Neuro-geeks can’t wait to have neural implants and people who don’t use nootropics are ‘memory shamed.’ Cortx is claiming ownership of those enhanced memories, and the Memory Rights Alliance is leading the charge to stop them and expose the unethical human experiments that have been taking place behind the scenes.
The idea of having to fight for humanity’s rights to their memories is what drew me to this novel. Advances in science and technology often come with a drawback and it’s usually a person or corporation out to make a profit out of it. In this case, people can have their enhanced memories as long as they pay the price, or in this case, a tax. I’m a big fan of futuristic stories and after reading about the technologies in the second ‘scene,’ such as having to swipe a card on the wall to activate the shower and transforming the shower curtain into a computer screen to watch the news, I was hooked. I was certainly not prepared for the jaw-dropping plot twist at the end.
Readers get a chilling glimpse into a future where memories—perhaps the most intimate aspect of our humanity—are no longer sacred.
Schulman combines the topics of privacy, autonomy, and the fundamental value of human experience to create tension between technological advancement and human rights. It raises critical questions about the boundaries of personal freedom in an increasingly digital and monetized world. The narrative is nonlinear, but the flashbacks provide the character development necessary to understand each character’s motivations. The poetic language adds depth to the scenes, such as during Gil’s mother’s funeral:
… – but the sound of rocks and earth hitting the surface of a wooden coffin six feet below creates a reverberating and unforgettable bass note of finality – if not closure.
Overall, “AXION: The Memory Rights Uprising” by David Shulman is a riveting and thought-provoking exploration of the ethical, political, and societal implications of memory manipulation. This compelling and cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked technological progress is recommended for fans of speculative fiction who also appreciate high-stakes courtroom drama.
To remember is essential to learn from past mistakes, to fade from memory is essential to transcend hardship, pain, and grief. The need to remember can be just as important as the need to forget.
December 4, 2024
David Shulman’s AXION: The Memory Rights Uprising is a gripping narrative that examines the volatile intersection of technology, neuroscience, and human rights. Set in a near-future society, the novel delves into a groundbreaking but chilling premise: the commercialization and privatization of human memory. As neurotech companies like Cortx push to impose a "memory tax," the battle between corporate greed and fundamental human rights takes center stage in this thought-provoking tale.
The story is anchored by Gil Hinchliff, a fearless and morally-driven attorney whose quest for justice drives the novel's emotional core. Hinchliff, co-founder of the Memory Rights Alliance (MRA), risks everything to expose Cortx's unethical human memory experiments. His journey, paralleled by courtroom drama and the rise of a militant memory rights movement, showcases the complexity of fighting for moral integrity in a world dominated by profit.
Shulman’s prose is both accessible and intellectually engaging, deftly balancing technical detail with human drama. The pacing is brisk, with moments of tension that keep the reader engaged. The characters, while strong in their convictions, occasionally lean into archetypes that could benefit from deeper development. For instance, Cortx’s executives are portrayed with a near-caricatured villainy that could be nuanced to make their motives more compelling. Similarly, while Hinchliff’s heroism is admirable, glimpses into his internal struggles or personal stakes could add layers to his character.
The book’s themes are resonant and timely, exploring the ethical ramifications of technological advancements. Questions surrounding autonomy, privacy, and the ownership of one’s memories are woven throughout the narrative, offering plenty of material for reflection. The courtroom scenes are especially effective, showcasing the intricacies of intellectual property law in a way that is both informative and dramatic.
Readers who enjoy speculative fiction with a strong ethical dimension will find much to appreciate here. Fans of Michael Crichton or Blake Crouch may be particularly drawn to Shulman’s fusion of science, suspense, and societal critique. The story is also an excellent fit for readers interested in legal dramas or cautionary tales about unchecked technological power.
Overall, AXION: The Memory Rights Uprising is a thought-provoking work that raises essential questions about the future of human rights in an increasingly digitized world. While the narrative could benefit from greater character depth in some areas, the book’s innovative premise and well-paced storytelling make it a compelling read for those who enjoy exploring the ethical dilemmas of our time.
The story is anchored by Gil Hinchliff, a fearless and morally-driven attorney whose quest for justice drives the novel's emotional core. Hinchliff, co-founder of the Memory Rights Alliance (MRA), risks everything to expose Cortx's unethical human memory experiments. His journey, paralleled by courtroom drama and the rise of a militant memory rights movement, showcases the complexity of fighting for moral integrity in a world dominated by profit.
Shulman’s prose is both accessible and intellectually engaging, deftly balancing technical detail with human drama. The pacing is brisk, with moments of tension that keep the reader engaged. The characters, while strong in their convictions, occasionally lean into archetypes that could benefit from deeper development. For instance, Cortx’s executives are portrayed with a near-caricatured villainy that could be nuanced to make their motives more compelling. Similarly, while Hinchliff’s heroism is admirable, glimpses into his internal struggles or personal stakes could add layers to his character.
The book’s themes are resonant and timely, exploring the ethical ramifications of technological advancements. Questions surrounding autonomy, privacy, and the ownership of one’s memories are woven throughout the narrative, offering plenty of material for reflection. The courtroom scenes are especially effective, showcasing the intricacies of intellectual property law in a way that is both informative and dramatic.
Readers who enjoy speculative fiction with a strong ethical dimension will find much to appreciate here. Fans of Michael Crichton or Blake Crouch may be particularly drawn to Shulman’s fusion of science, suspense, and societal critique. The story is also an excellent fit for readers interested in legal dramas or cautionary tales about unchecked technological power.
Overall, AXION: The Memory Rights Uprising is a thought-provoking work that raises essential questions about the future of human rights in an increasingly digitized world. While the narrative could benefit from greater character depth in some areas, the book’s innovative premise and well-paced storytelling make it a compelling read for those who enjoy exploring the ethical dilemmas of our time.
May 2, 2024
AXION: The Memory Rights Uprising is like a rollercoaster ride through a not-so-distant future where neuroscience hits warp speed. David Shulman throws you into a world where the race to decode memories makes the gold rush look like a casual stroll.
The main vehicle is a courtroom showdown that's as intense as a thriller movie, with a side of guerrilla warfare brewing in the background. All because of the world's first 'memory tax.' Indeed, a permanent tax on your memories. You would have to pay to keep them. This sounds just crazy enough to be true.
Gil Hinchliff, rebel attorney, isn't your typical suit-and-tie guy. He's ready to flip the script, risking everything to expose Cortx as the big bad wolf of neuro-tech and their shady memory experiments. They're playing fast and loose with ethics, and Gil's not having it.
Cortx, with its slick tactics and patent jargon, wants to claim ownership of enhanced human memories. It's like staking a claim in the Wild West, but instead of land, it's your thoughts they're after.
Enter the Memory Rights Alliance, led by none other than Gil himself. They're fighting the good fight on a global scale, pushing back against the corporate machine.
Now, let's talk villains. Cortx isn't just your run-of-the-mill evil empire. They're so sinister that they even abbreviated 'cortex' to sound extra nefarious. It's like they're straight out of a sci-fi horror flick, except this nightmare feels a little too close to reality.
But it's not all doom and gloom. The protagonist, Gil, is a hot mess but in a lovable way. You'll cheer him on one minute and shake your fist at his stubbornness the next. As for Sophie Hudson, she's caught in the crossfire, torn between tough choices and a past that won't let her go. My heart went out to her more times than I can count.
Several plot twists keep you guessing about the trial's outcome and the lives of the major players.
I don't feel like this story is finished. I've got my popcorn ready, waiting to see if there's a sequel. Because in a world where memories are up for grabs, anything can happen.
You can learn more about the author and watch a video trailer on my website, https://ginaraemitchell.com.
I received a copy of the book from the author, publisher, or tour company.
This review is my honest, unbiased opinion.
The main vehicle is a courtroom showdown that's as intense as a thriller movie, with a side of guerrilla warfare brewing in the background. All because of the world's first 'memory tax.' Indeed, a permanent tax on your memories. You would have to pay to keep them. This sounds just crazy enough to be true.
Gil Hinchliff, rebel attorney, isn't your typical suit-and-tie guy. He's ready to flip the script, risking everything to expose Cortx as the big bad wolf of neuro-tech and their shady memory experiments. They're playing fast and loose with ethics, and Gil's not having it.
Cortx, with its slick tactics and patent jargon, wants to claim ownership of enhanced human memories. It's like staking a claim in the Wild West, but instead of land, it's your thoughts they're after.
Enter the Memory Rights Alliance, led by none other than Gil himself. They're fighting the good fight on a global scale, pushing back against the corporate machine.
Now, let's talk villains. Cortx isn't just your run-of-the-mill evil empire. They're so sinister that they even abbreviated 'cortex' to sound extra nefarious. It's like they're straight out of a sci-fi horror flick, except this nightmare feels a little too close to reality.
But it's not all doom and gloom. The protagonist, Gil, is a hot mess but in a lovable way. You'll cheer him on one minute and shake your fist at his stubbornness the next. As for Sophie Hudson, she's caught in the crossfire, torn between tough choices and a past that won't let her go. My heart went out to her more times than I can count.
Several plot twists keep you guessing about the trial's outcome and the lives of the major players.
I don't feel like this story is finished. I've got my popcorn ready, waiting to see if there's a sequel. Because in a world where memories are up for grabs, anything can happen.
You can learn more about the author and watch a video trailer on my website, https://ginaraemitchell.com.
I received a copy of the book from the author, publisher, or tour company.
This review is my honest, unbiased opinion.
April 18, 2024
I find that I have a hard time getting into some science fiction because I can’t relate to something in the story, usually because the world it takes place in is so different from our current world that I can’t put myself in that world and believe it. If a sci-fi book is a space opera in another universe populated by non-human-like characters, I’ll pass. But other science fiction can draw me in because it feels very possible in the future (often the not too distant future) that what is depicted could happen.
This book is definitely one of those in the latter category. In fact, it’s biggest fault might be the it feels too close and all too probable that things could happen the way they’re depicted in this story. Given the recent rise of artificial intelligence with all the positives and not-so-positive effects as well as all the discussion and concern around it, this book takes us to the next step, the ability to map, record, and in some fashion impact what goes on in our brain, specifically memories. If you’ve got a brain (and I’m assuming any being that can read this does), then this will get you thinking and wondering. Another thing I found myself considering is what I think of people who do wrong things in order to get the right result for themselves and the world in general. Then there is the twist at the end that I sure didn’t see coming. I’m not sure what to think of it other than it added an additional layer to all that happened, even if done in retrospect. A good, thought-provoking read.
**Originally written for "Books and Pals" book blog. May have received a free review copy. **
This book is definitely one of those in the latter category. In fact, it’s biggest fault might be the it feels too close and all too probable that things could happen the way they’re depicted in this story. Given the recent rise of artificial intelligence with all the positives and not-so-positive effects as well as all the discussion and concern around it, this book takes us to the next step, the ability to map, record, and in some fashion impact what goes on in our brain, specifically memories. If you’ve got a brain (and I’m assuming any being that can read this does), then this will get you thinking and wondering. Another thing I found myself considering is what I think of people who do wrong things in order to get the right result for themselves and the world in general. Then there is the twist at the end that I sure didn’t see coming. I’m not sure what to think of it other than it added an additional layer to all that happened, even if done in retrospect. A good, thought-provoking read.
**Originally written for "Books and Pals" book blog. May have received a free review copy. **
Displaying 1 - 4 of 4 reviews