ive been meaning to buy this book, his books are interesting
As one may be able to tell by my user name, I love this book. On a base level, I do think Vonnegut is arguing the points the OP attributes to him. I haven’t read any formal criticism Cats Cradle lately, so I’ll respond with my personal interpretation.
To paraphrase the nuclear scientist, science has sinned by creating a weapon powerful enough to destroy the world. IMHO, ICE-9 is symbolic of the nuclear war in that all it would take is one madman in the right position to end life as we know it. I think Vonnegut’s thrust is that humans collectively are not smart enough to wield the power they have over the planet.
I don’t think the book claims life is futile or that humans are necessarily stupid. It does seem Vonnegut is pointing out the very significant dangers of the course humanity has taken, however.
The quote (from the Book of Bokonon) that prefaces the book illustrates the problem with this assertion. I think Cat’s Cradle argues that religion, insomuch as it helps the greater is good, is a good thing - even if the religion itself is false.
If one didn’t care for the humor in Cat’s Cradle, I can totally understand one not liking this book. Otherwise, it’s a great read despite its cynicism.
Seconded.
Me three! “I am a victim of a series of accidents- as are we all.”