State-as-operating-system metaphor calls to mind plot of " 2001 - a space odyssey "

[professor rat]

State-as-operating-system metaphor calls to mind plot of " 2001 - a space odyssey " where the remains of the human race are trapped on board a migrating starship and have to deal with the ships computer being infected with a logging virus.
The key to survival involves jury-rigging basic systems like supplies, communications and love-dolls.

Your parsec mileage may vary.