Mossey Library hosted its fall book discussion this week on Robert Heinlein’s novel “Starship Troopers.” 

The 1959 science fiction novel is set in a future where humanity has become an interplanetary civilization at war with a giant arachnid species known as “the Bugs.” In “Starship Troopers,” citizenship and voting rights are earned through military service. It follows Juan Rico through boot camp and into interstellar battle. Along the way, Heinlein gives his perspective on questions of citizenship, personal responsibility, and civic virtue, according to Rodger Butters, an attendee and associate professor of economics. 

Many attendees who read the book before the discussion said they were long-time lovers of “Starship Troopers,” though a significant number of participants first read the book in preparation for the event. Nearly all in attendance rated the book very highly during an informal poll at the beginning of the discussion — the common consensus rated it approximately eight on a scale from one to ten.

The discussion focused on the novel’s main themes but also delved into intriguing side-trails, such as Heinlein’s accuracy in depicting interstellar travel. Most participants in the discussion were unenthused concerning the film adaptation of “Starship Troopers,” though some proposed it might make for a worthwhile stage play, citing the personal depth of the narrative and its introspective moments.

Devon Downes, a senior and Heinlein fan, said he enjoyed the discussion and appreciated the chance to hear others’ thoughts about the novel. 

”I thought the discussion was excellent,” Downes said. “The participants were absolutely right to notice how important the idea of personal responsibility is to Heinlein’s work.” 

Downes pointed to Heinlein’s novel as a pivotal book in his life.

“The first time I read this was 10 years ago, and Heinlein’s approach to moral philosophy, his thoughts on patriotism, and the need to take personal responsibility to defend liberty ultimately moved me to enlist in the Marine Corps, which in turn later made attending Hillsdale College possible,” he said.

Charles Steele, associate professor of economics, proposed “Starship Troopers” should be one of the books that students read before coming to campus as freshmen because of its vision of individual rights, authority, and government. 

“I think that these are ideas that people here should understand, appreciate, and discuss,” Steele said. “I think that it would fit really well with the Hillsdale ethos.” 

Downes pointed to one line from the book as a summary of Heinlein’s thoughts. 

“Man is what he is, a wild animal with the will to survive, and (so far) the ability, against all competition. Unless one accepts that, anything one says about morals, war, politics — you name it — is nonsense. Correct morals arise from knowing what man is — not what do-gooders and well-meaning old Aunt Nellies would like him to be.”

Despite the novel’s age, many participants felt that the story was not distractingly dated. Downes in particular believes it is still relevant for the modern world.

“Heinlein’s message resonates with readers today because it deals with timeless issues, namely the relationship between liberty and responsibility, and his recognition of human nature as it is, and not as we might want it to be, as the foundation of moral philosophy,” Downes said.