The Circle by Dave Eggers, is an interesting, if slightly obvious premise. A clear play on the power of the major players in the social media and technology business (google, Facebook etc.), the Circle is a look at the terrifying possibility of a total global takeover by these companies, and how it could happen with the general consent of the people.
The story focuses on Mae Holland, a recent graduate who lands a coveted entry level position working for the Circle, a major technology firm that got its start by creating a true identity technology that connects all online interactions, including purchases, forum posts etc., to each unique person. Mae is awe-struck with the campus, an idyllic working environment with on campus social events, dorm rooms for sleeping, and a culture of complete immersion. Even with a rocky start, Mae learns the ropes and winds up in an increasingly public role as she works up through the ranks of the company, becoming more and more withdrawn from her life outside of the circle. The more time Mae spends at the circle, the more she starts to buy into its philosophies and propaganda.
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