The Caves of Steel — Reader discussion

I really enjoyed how Asimov combined the detective genre with a deep social commentary in The Caves of Steel. The tension between humans and robots felt very relevant, even today, as it reflects our own anxieties about technology and change. Elijah Baley’s character is relatable, especially in how he struggles with prejudice and fear of the unknown. The futuristic city setting added a claustrophobic feel that heightened the mystery. Did you find the portrayal of the robot-human relationship believable for the time it was written?

One thing that struck me about The Caves of Steel was how well Asimov used the mystery plot to explore broader themes like urban overpopulation and cultural isolation. The city itself almost becomes a character, shaping the attitudes and fears of its inhabitants. I also appreciated how the story doesn’t just present robots as villains or saviors but challenges us to think about coexistence. Which moment in the book did you feel best captured the tension between tradition and progress?