Sarina Rao knew she would need a

“One of our carefully programmed robot surgeons will insert three central processors and a 9G wireless antenna fabricated in the shape of rear molars into the empty sockets where your wisdom teeth used to be. These devices will be fastened tightly to both the mandibular and maxillary branches of the trigeminal nerve. 

“As the widest of the cranial nerves, the trigeminal is uniquely equipped to carry high-capacity signal to and from the thalamus, the brain’s information relay system. Among its many functions, it connects to the “human” brain of our prefrontal cortex and the “animal” or “reptilian” brain of our  amygdala -- but not very well. Have you noticed that fear always trumps reason? That's what's I'm talking about. 

“ThinkPal supports the cortex in its assertion of reason and logic,” Sarina continues. “The result is transformative. That’s the message we all have to capture and communicate to the American people without sounding so science-y that people tune us out.” 

“Thanks very much for setting the stage, Sarina,” says Carmody, rising from his chair and taking her place at the lectern.  “This is all very helpful. What I think we need most in launching this campaign is a great tagline. A group of us have narrowed it down to three contenders, which I would like to now share with you. They are: Ride the Windhorse of Life, Think Like a King, andLike a Tree Firmly Planted. 

“We have not yet from Smartacus on this, and I’d like to correct that right now.  Smartacus, please give us your thoughts on these. Which is your favorite – and why?” 

Carmody always is entertained by the range of human and non-human forms Smartacus will adopt in their interactions. It changes daily. This morning, his custom LLM manifests as a Hindu sage on the conference room’s big wall-sized screen. He speaks quickly with a clipped English accent that makes Carmody smile. 

“I’ll give you my best assessment, based on survey data that goes back a century and my understanding of human psychology and semantical potency,” Smartacus replies. 

“Like a Tree Firmly Planted is likely to resonate most strongly with the broadest segment of the American population, tapping into deep-seated values of strength, stability, and resilience. It aligns well with the themes of technological integration enhancing human capabilities while remaining rooted in core human values.  It has roots in various cultural and religious texts, symbolizing strength, stability, and growth. It is reminiscent of Psalm 1 from the Bible: "He is like a tree planted by streams of water. This tagline will appeal to those who seek stability and resilience. It resonates with values of growth, nurturing, and deep roots in one’s community or environment. It’s inclusive and will have broad appeal across different demographics.

Smartacus pauses to allow all to absorb what it's saying. 

“On the other hand, Ride the Windhorse of Life has a poetic and spiritual tone. Associated with Tibetan Buddhism, “windhorse” symbolizes the life force and the power of the mind and evokes a sense of adventure and spiritual journey. It will appeal to those who seeking a deeper, more meaningful connection with technology. It speaks especially to those who view life as a journey. I see just one potential drawback: Its cultural specificity may limit its broad appeal in a society as diverse as the U.S.

“You may want to use both,” Smartacus concludes. 

“Thank you,” says Carmody. "That’s insightful. You’ve confirmed my own sense that we have two strong contenders. I see Like a Tree Firmly Planted as our over-arching spiritual theme with an emphasis on stability, resilience, and the seamless integration of ThinkPal into your everyday life. I see Ride the Windhorse of Life as our call to action to technological and spiritual adventurers, especially early adopters, younger demographics, and those who are questing personal growth and transformation.”  

“I think you’ve nailed it,” Smartacus replies. “I suggest we do some focus-group brain imagining for a deep-read on how this messaging is registering. Shall I set these up?”

“Please,” Carmody says. “But first, show us some visuals.” 

Smartacus goes to work. The results are below.