Bad Medicine by Robert Sheckley

“Bad Medicine” by Robert Sheckley is a satirical science fiction novel written in the early 21st century. The story takes place in the year 2103 and follows the peculiar and darkly humorous journey of Elwood Caswell, a man struggling with homicidal thoughts. The book delves into themes of mental health and the absurdity of mechanotherapy as a solution to psychological issues. The narrative unfolds as Caswell, a jetbus conductor, becomes fixated on killing his friend Magnessen, spurred by irrational thoughts and a malfunctioning therapeutic machine designed for Martians. In his quest for therapy, Caswell purchases the ‘Rex Regenerator,’ only to discover that it cannot accurately treat his Earthly problems due to its Martian programming. As he engages with the machine, a hilarious and bizarre dynamic develops, leading to an exploration of identity, sanity, and the nature of friendship. Despite its comedic tone, the story highlights the fine line between madness and clarity, culminating in an unsettling realization about Caswell’s true feelings toward Magnessen.