I had a very clever idea last evening... In theory, Habilis first utilized fire as a method of food (meat) preparation, and to fend off predators. I believe that the realization of fire having the ability to provide warmth, as being the prominent reason for Habilis to have harnessed fire.
Now, consider this: How do yo...u teach a child to play with fire? Showing him how to make fire is not enough of a drive to succeed, but merely a show in understanding of the existence
and the ability to create - Completely lacking in reason. However, if you compound it's creation with exhibiting what one of the most amazing natural forces (fire) is capable of, then you have provided him reason and inspired his imagination.
With this in mind, how would you teach an ape to harness fire? Indeed, a very good question with an exceptionally well rounded answer. A percentage of apes may possess the Pyromaniac mentality, like myself, but is that really an effective method of widespread utilization? In the long run it may be a better solution, but I am seeking more immediate results. As such, I have come to the conclusion that we need to set a spark in the minds of apes that would provide for not only a few of them, but all of them to desire the fire.
How I intend to do this is through synthetic necessity. You ask me how to accomplish this deed of destruction, chaos, corruption, and ultimately enabling evolution to take a giant leap
beyond what was previously thought possible, creating competition for Humans? Well, I'll tell you... Addiction. Yes, as seen in Humans - It can be a very powerful force, taking over our every thought and compelling us to do things we never would have considered doing before our addiction.
Cigarettes. Yes, cigarettes. You may laugh now, but when the apes set fire to your habitat because they smoke the devils weed, then we will see who laughs. (I will laugh)
Have you yet to notice our distant cousins on resort beaches pillage and plunder, all because they were intoxicated by ethanol? In the hot sun one may do anything for a nice cold drink... Especially if it has such enjoyable side effects like idiocy and the inability to walk or communicate effectively.
Now, if you have never been a smoker, think of your friends and family... How did they act when they have not had a cigarette in a few hours or days? Can you imagine someone with
the new found ability to create fire and it's power, unglued by his itch... his fixation - his obsession - for nicotine, and not bound by the rules of society and consequence? Quite a dangerous animal.
On that note, I have a little secret to tell you... The antidote is vodka. You must begin to administer the antidote in a mixture of fruit juices, which would entice the apes senses. Over time an undiluted version will be desired as the fruit addition would be seen by the apes as too sweet and less effective than a straight glass of booze.
I did ponder how they would continue to obtain their chosen enslaving device and luckily I found two simple tools to aide them in their journey! The blade, in two different forms, be that a knife/sword and the spear. With these tools they will eventually come to know combat tactics on a higher level than previously employed in the field against other tribes. Perhaps I will even provide them with the knowledge of manufacturing the Molotov, under the guise of a trial basis... Which could even turn the antidote against the people who would dare administrate it! Muahahaha!!! After a few decades of experience and adaption, they will be trained in the use of better weaponry, such as those that utilize fire to a higher degree... Firearms, explosives, etc.
One day I will rule the world, and I shall command the Army of Apes.
Laugh - I dare you.
PS, how do I create a lesser indent?