Far into the future, mankind has developed into telepathic beings. However a few children are still born "stupid," without the talent, like Eric, the hero of this story. The telepaths learn new things instantly by "hooking up" with others who have the knowledge. Eric has to study and learn in the old way. Eric is treated, and feels, inferior, until he finds a group of others like himself. They decide on a dangerous plan to gain back their full humanity.