Bryan Derksen wrote on Fri, 01 Aug 2003 21:37:46 GMT:

I've read them, and find them unrealistic. If the galaxy is populated
by intelligent life that is deliberately restricting itself from
exploting all available resources, then there's going to be a massive
advantage for any species (machine life or otherwise) that _does_
agressively exploit all available resources. How would the other
occupants of the galaxy stop these self-replicating machines if they
are handicapping themselves to such a degree?

Somehow, you have to explain for the fact that Mercury still
exists.

Hmmh, tasty metals!
Karl M. Syring