Macroscope

infobox Book |
name = Macroscope
title_orig = Macroscope
translator = Macroscope


image_caption = Cover of first paperback edition
author = Piers Anthony
illustrator =
cover_artist =
country = United States
language = English
series =
genre = Science fiction novel
publisher = Avon Books
release_date = 1969
english_release_date =
media_type = Print (Hardcover & Paperback)
pages =
isbn = ISBN 0-380-00209-4
preceded_by =
followed_by = "Macroscope" is a novel by science fiction and fantasy writer Piers Anthony. It was nominated for the Hugo Award for Best Novel in 1970.

Plot introduction

"Macroscope" was first published in 1969 and in some respects reflects the idealistic values of that time. The plot involves, among other things, an extension of "the Peckham Experiment", mathematician John Conway's game of sprouts, astrology, the poetry of Sidney Lanier, the history of Phoenicia, and commentary on the values of a dedicated teacher of a subject contrasted with a scientist in that subject, all in a kaleidoscopic combination.The book fills a unique place in Anthony's work as one that has garnered good reviews from hard-core science fiction fans as well as his usual audience of fantasy fans.

The central device is an instrument capable of viewing anywhere in the Galaxy, and which could be used for eavesdropping upon the communications of advanced civilizations. The effects of massively advanced technology in the hands of immature species were so bad that advanced civilizations permanently jammed the macroscope's "channel" with a video signal that destroyed the mind of any sufficiently intelligent (but immature) viewer; those not intelligent enough to be vulnerable would be unable to use the technologies discoverable by the macroscope.