From: Hugh Fisher <laranzu@o...>
Date: Wed, 15 Feb 2006 21:15:55 +1100
Subject: [GZG] Future history silliness
A bit of future history silliness I wrote to distract myself from a far too serious day. It is of course unsanctioned, unofficial, and unlikely. The GZG timeline has the US economy collapsing, the president being assassinated, and the 2nd American Civil War, all leading to the formation of the NAC. But what really triggered these events? 2040: Genetic manipulation is cheap and reliable enough for domestic animals, especially cows and goats, to be modified to synthesise proteins, enzymes, and other useful biological compounds in their milk. The pharmaceutical industry funds a rural "pharming" boom. 2042: In a refinement of the process, goats and sheep are used to synthesise compounds through the skin and hair, for instance creating naturally antibiotic or antihistamine fibres. 2043: A few technologically advanced fashion companies start modifying sheep and goats to synthesise pheromones and aphrodisiacs instead. Angora jackets, fleecy coats, and woollen sweaters become the ultimate in sensual clothing. That the effect quickly fades, and is lost entirely if the garment is washed, only increases repeat sales and profits. 2044: A new and conservative US administration, horrified by the popularity of "shag-wear" clothing, bans outright all unlicensed pharm animals. 2044-2048: An era similar to 1920s Prohibition, but electronic banking and communication, together with fast transportation, spreads criminal activity from coast to coast at breathtaking speed. Continual intensification of the "war on fleeces" only strengthens the crime lords. 2049: Every aspect of US society has been thoroughly corrupted by rich, ruthless, and heavily armed sheep smuggling syndicates. cheers,