Who? is a science fiction novel by Algis Budrys, first published in 1958. The story revolves around Lucas Martino, a brilliant scientist working on a vital defense project for the West. Martino disappears and is presumed captured by the Soviet Union. He returns months later, drastically altered: he has undergone extensive reconstructive surgery, leaving him a metal-encased shell with only a small portion of his original brain intact.
The core plot revolves around the protagonist, Special Investigator Shawn Rogers, who is tasked with determining whether the returned individual is indeed Lucas Martino. Rogers faces a complex dilemma: the Soviets have meticulously reconstructed the individual, making positive identification almost impossible. He must use any means available – psychological evaluation, forensic analysis, and deductive reasoning – to ascertain the truth.
The novel explores themes of identity, perception, and the Cold War paranoia that characterized the era. It delves into the question of what constitutes a person's identity and whether it can be entirely erased or replaced by external manipulation. The narrative highlights the mistrust and suspicion that pervaded relations between the East and West, portraying a world where technological advancements are weaponized and used to undermine human integrity.
Who? is notable for its thought-provoking exploration of philosophical and ethical issues related to identity and technology, presented within a suspenseful Cold War thriller.