Ben Bova — The Duelling Machine

London, Faber and Faber Limited, 1971. First edition. Hardback. An uncommon first edition from prolific and multi-award winning American science fiction writer Ben Bova. An uncommon first edition of this entertaining title, in original unclipped dust wrapper.The titular Duelling Machine is invented for the purpose of conflict de-escalation through the creation of augmented reality environments - secluded and fantastical stages on which to battle out any real-world friction.As the purposes of the technology expand throughout the second half of the novel, Bova ponders the consequences of such a technology on politics and inter-personal relationships. Bound in original blue cloth. In original unclipped dust wrapper. Externally, in lovely condition. The odd very small mark to front board. Very slight bumps to head and tail. Dust wrapper externally very smart. Very mild shelf wear to dust wrapper. The odd mark to dust wrapper reverse. Internally, firmly bound. Pages generally bright and clean. Fine . Ill.: None. Fine/Near Fine.