Science out of control

We all know that we live in a “scientific society”, where nowadays more than ever Science is our new religion. We believe in the power of discovery and in everything that comes to us from the scientific field. But if we were all scientists, we would know that to truly marry the cause of the unknown, there are some rules to follow. Bioethics has indeed become an independent subject of studies. Scientists are, in fact, morally obliged to take responsibility for what they create or discover.

Even when we read about science in a book then, we demand it to be realistic. A great representation of science should consider all its aspects.

Frankenstein or The new Prometheus is a perfect example of this. Mary Shelley can celebrate the powerfulness of science, leading at the same time a reflection of the lack of responsibility of scientists. Doctor Frankenstein creates a new human being from nothing, thus building a magnificent example of what science could be able to do, but once in front of his creature, his son, he doesn’t know anymore how to deal with it. He doesn’t know how to fit him into the real world; therefore, he runs, leaving his creation alone and unarmed.

In a sense, she anticipated the most significant bioethical problem of the twentieth century, when nuclear arms were developed. Real scientists, committed to the cause of the infinite search for the unknown, have participated in the development of the nuclear bomb. We can then ask ourselves: how do they feel having given birth to the most powerful armament that has ever existed? They now live in the hope that no one will ever be brave enough to use it…

In conclusion, we could strongly affirm that Mary Shelley gives a complete representation of science in all its aspects. Celebrating its glories and possibilities, as well as the thrill that comes with discovery, but also criticizing the ethical issues that come with it. She is the first and greatest science fiction writer of all times.

Vittoria Distante, V N