Button, Button Richard Matheson

The story makes no mention of the couple’s age, profession, social and financial position, can you imagine what they might be, based on the story? What kind of people are Norma and her husband?

Analysis of Norma’s psychology--- Is she selfish? Is she cruel? Is she greedy? Is she a murderer?

She will not be held responsible for that person’s death Millions of people die in the world every minute or every day anyway. ---What’s so terrible about one more death?

She feels--- She has nothing to lose. She has much to gain.

What is the author trying to tell us? Women are generally selfish, money-grabbing and foolish? Men and women usually differ in their moral principles? Husband and wife often deceive themselves into thinking that they understand each other? Money often makes a person blind and leads to self-destruction? Oh what?.....

What does “pushing the button “symbolize? Some people who press the button and--- Launch a missile Drop bombs Produce alcohol, drugs, milk with poisonous chemicals or medicines Make decisions secretly in banks, business companies, and public offices

Why? 1. the monetary reward is too attractive 2. they don’t know the victims personally and they don’t have to watch them die

The writer exposed people’s moral failings, especially greed and insensitivity.