Our history
The founding of Barbitura
​Barbitura was created out of necessity, forged in the crucible of relentless epidemics that ravaged the world. The 50th epidemic was the turning point. When a group of visionary scientists, led by Steve Herbinson, made a difficult decision that saved their dying country. They eliminated all infected individuals and the elderly population above 70, who were particularly vulnerable and contributed to the rapid spread of disease. This drastic measure resulted in an 83 percent reduction of the population, a sacrifice that laid the foundation for the nation's survival.
Preservation of knowledge
The frequent plagues had a devastating impact on the collective knowledge of Barbitura. Particularly because the older generations, who held much of this knowledge, were decimated. In response, the early leaders of Barbitura prioritized the preservation of knowledge by establishing a library. This institution, now the oldest in the world, became a cornerstone of the nation's commitment to education and intellectual growth.
Technological Renaissance
In the aftermath of the population decline, Barbitura faced a critical need to rebuild and repopulate. To attract brilliant minds from around the world, the government initiated several groundbreaking incentives:
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Every citizen receives a personal robot, designed to serve and assist with daily tasks.
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Barbitura established itself as an academic epicenter. Boasting the oldest library in the world and offering unparalleled opportunities for learning and research.
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The nation rapidly advanced technologically, becoming a beacon of innovation.
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Compensation was directly linked to academic prowess, ensuring that the most intelligent individuals received the highest pay.
Controversial policies
To maintain a healthy and productive population, Barbitura implemented a controversial policy of euthanizing individuals over the age of 70 called The Ascension. This decision was based on the belief that the elderly were no longer useful, as they were more susceptible to illness and less capable of contributing to the workforce.
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Public outcry against the euthanasia policy led to the introduction of an alternative: the Brain Cloud. This innovative solution allowed individuals to upload their consciousness to a digital cloud, accessible to their families at all times. The Brain Cloud operated on a subscription model, reflecting the nation’s meritocratic values.
Technocratic government
With the old democratic government unable to handle the crises effectively, the scientists decided to establish a new form of governance. Barbitura transitioned into a technocracy based on the principle of meritocracy. The government consists of economists and scientists who have demonstrated their capabilities and merits. This leadership structure ensured that those who were best equipped to make informed decisions were at the helm. Leading to rapid and efficient advancements in technology and public health.
Legacy of Steve Herbinson
Steve Herbinson, known as The Ultra, was the mastermind behind many of Barbitura's radical policies and technological advancements. As the first to carry out The Ascension of the elderly, he became a polarizing figure. To demonstrate his commitment to his ideals, he uploaded his own consciousness to the Brain Cloud and ascended. However, unbeknownst to the public, Herbinson had secretly transferred his mind into a human-like robot, achieving a form of immortality. He controlled all the other robots in Barbitura and wielded significant influence within the government. By periodically transferring to a new adult body, Herbinson's identity remained hidden, allowing him to guide the nation's progress from the shadows.
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Brain cloud: where your mind gets uploaded to when you turn 70
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The Ascension: the act of leaving the physical body and world
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The Insertion: an exchange program where the brightest minds from other countries come to spread their genetic material
A model society
Thanks to its scientific governance and automation, Barbitura eradicated many societal problems. Poverty doesn’t exist. Education, childcare, and healthcare were provided for free, supported by the labor of robots and automated systems. Barbitura also engaged in exchange programs, inviting the brightest minds from other countries to contribute to their society. These individuals were incentivized with financial rewards and the opportunity to spread their genetic material (The Insertion), furthering the nation's goal of continual intellectual and technological advancement.
Reproductive control
In Barbitura, reproduction is strictly regulated to ensure the proliferation of desirable traits. All procreation occurs through in vitro fertilization (IVF), allowing the government to screen for and eliminate undesirable genes. Steve Herbinson, through his extensive control, decides which individuals are permitted to have biological children. Those deemed intellectually inferior receive robotic infants, unaware that their offspring are not human.
Economic and technological advancements
As a result of its radical policies and focus on meritocracy, Barbitura quickly became one of the richest countries in the world. The nation’s economy still thrives on advanced technological infrastructure and heavily automated processes. This economic strength is a direct outcome of its focus on attracting and nurturing the brightest minds, as well as its commitment to continuous innovation and efficient resource management.