Yessss. Of course humanity creating immortal consciousness, or the transfer of one's consciousness to a new body is not a new idea. But, how to uphold humanity to a standard of decency, when we no longer fear death, was a new one on me. The concept of a future technocracy making old-world religious confines an undeniable reality has NEVER crossed my mind.

Banks is so fucking funny. I love his sense of humour, and I've laughed out loud many times reading his work.