In the second-class cabin with him was his android, a magnificent synthetic creature with classic features and wide blue eyes.

The black fake-fur hat perched on his head looked like some synthetic creature trying to mate with his wig.

Some scientists say the day may come when these synthetic creatures build tiny self-replicating factories, fight human disease, write better software programs and even take a physical form outside the computer.

The two synthetic creatures were both anxious for the honor, and all the quarrelsomeness in their natures came to the fore.

His answer is, I think, yes: "It won't be long before we all number synthetic creatures among our friends."

Come on, little synthetic ancient cute creature, all made out of wires.

As the synthetic creature entered for the second time this night, it was startled by Keklos' reaction.

And he shouted again at the synthetic creature: "Tell him to attack them!

What this so-called bioengineering proposal calls for is to colonize other planets, not with human beings, but with synthetic creatures which would bear no resemblance to human beings.

What might happen, Mr. Spielberg asks, if this loving, synthetic creature, played in the film by Haley Joel Osment, is not loved in return?