Being interviewed for IBM
Straight out of Uni, and doing the circuit of 'graduate training program interviews'.

As part of the 2 day long process we were forced into groups of 6 or 8 and had to 'work out various problems - as a group' you all know the rubbish - from building a tall structure out of bluetack and spagetti to the one that ruined my chances;

"Nasa is sending into deep space a capsule which contains 6 items showing life on Earth - you will choose one item from each of these categories; Art, Music, Sport, Literature, Technology and religion"

Well we argued about all of them, with Mr suited and booted IBM making notes about what choices were made and how.
It was time to make a choice about the religious item.

So I decide to show my honesty and ability to think outside the box;
"I don't think we should put anything representing religion in the box as any choice we make will be prejudice and assumptive. Religion has caused more deaths, wars and pain than anything else on this planet, and I feel that we shouldn't impose our belief structure on any other culture."

I felt quite proud of myself and would clearly be chosen for such a brave and 'sideways view'.
Wrong
The chap marking us was white and making notes like nobodies business.
It was only then I noticed his lapel badge with a silver crucifix on it. As were 90% of the other interviewers. And half the group I was in.

I didn't get called back, and apparently the right answer was a copy of the old testament, as it is found in one form or another in 3 or 4 religions.

Bas**ds
( Geej, Sat 22 Jan 2005, 10:15, Reply)