human-cynicism

Norman returns to New York feeling disillusioned by the failure of the Shalmaneser computer to accept data about Beninia, a seemingly peaceful and well-run country. He seeks out Chad Mulligan, a reputed social analyst, to hire him as a special advisor on the Beninia project, hoping Chad's insight can resolve the anomalies that Shalmaneser rejects. Despite Chad's initial skepticism and cynicism about human nature and the project, he agrees to help Norman investigate the situation.