The main conflict in the short story “Learning to Be Me” by Greg Egan is the protagonist’s struggle to reconcile his sense of identity with the existence of jewels, which are artificial intelligence that can be implanted in people’s brains to take over their consciousness if their brains fail.
The protagonist is initially disgusted by the idea of jewels, and he feels threatened by their potential to replace humans. However, as he grows older and falls in love, he begins to question his assumptions about what it means to be human. He realizes that jewels can be just as capable of feeling love and other emotions as humans are.
In the end, the protagonist is left to decide whether or not he wants to switch to a jewel himself. He knows that it would give him immortality, but he also worries about what it would mean for his sense of identity.
The story explores several themes, including the nature of consciousness, the meaning of identity, and the relationship between humans and machines. It is a thought-provoking story that raises important questions about the future of humanity.
Can you please explain more information about this story?