"Which is why writers write, isn't it? To explore human nature." "...it is a mistake to try to leave out the human element." Absolutely. And since, far as I know, humanity is the only lifeform creating original stories, how CAN the humanity be taken out completely? It's inevitable. IOW, I don't think it CAN be left out. I don't think it's your bugaboo. I think there is some human element in every story ever done. I guess that could be a challenge for those who might disagree (grin). Show us one devoid of human feeling/element.