In our world at present, science has crossed the boundaries of what was once thought to be science fiction. Man and Machine have become one in many different ways right before our eyes. Only, our eyes have been averted and focused elsewhere in the world while someone like Dr. Roger McPherson, Head of the Neuropsychiatric Research Unit, forges ahead with an experimental procedure known as Stage Three. There are, however, complications. The subject is Harold Benson, a computer expert who is suffering from Acute Disinhibitory Lesion syndrome, a disease in which the patient periodically blacks out and loses his inhibitions towards committing violent acts. McPherson and his team plan to put 40 electrodes, a power pack, and small computer in the patient, which will deliver a shock to the proper area, halting the black outs and therefore stopping the acts of violence. The problem is that Mr. Benson is also suffering from the growing psychopathic delusion that machines are taking over the world and the delusion is rapidly growing worse. The team's psychiatric consultant, Dr. Ross, has expressed concern over whether or not it's logical to continue on with the operation; the procedure can stop the seizures, but it can't stop Harold Benson's delusions. She is convinced that the procedure would be wasted on the man.  Dr. Ellis carries on with the operation anyway, but at what cost?

I always enjoy the work of Michael Crichton. The man never ceases to amaze me with his articulate and well researched stories. The Terminal Man is a wonderful technical thriller. This story is a real page turner that is filled with wicked surprises as one delves deeper into the consequences of the Stage Three procedure. Watch in wonder as machine and man merge, the psychotic delusions of one man escalate, and he gains control over the machine built to control him.