Scientific Research In Frankenstein

The Mortalities of Scientific Research-Creation
In Frankenstein written by Mary Shelley, many believe the true monster is Victor Frankenstein; however, the real monster is the knowledge of scientific research and creation. Scientific research is performing a methodical study in order to perform a hypothesis or answer a question (cite) and creation is the act of producing or causing to exist (cite). Although scientific research and creation have shaped the world we live in today, there is a moral code that we all have to follow to eliminate hardships. Throughout the novel, Shelley constantly cautions her readers of the consequences of dominating the power of scientific knowledge and to be omniscient. In this paper, I will argue that Victor’s
He forgot his responsibilities and morals trying to make the most powerful invention. This is evident when Victor explains to his sister that one man’s life is nothing next to scientific inventions as it creates more; “One man's life or death were but a small price to pay for the acquirement of the knowledge which I sought, for the dominion I should acquire and transmit over the elemental foes of our race. (Letter 4.21)” An ethical creation is a creation that is in accordance with the rules or standards for the right practice and profession (cite). His inspiration may have come from losing his mother at a young age. One of the bigger questions the reader faces while reading the novel is if it would make a difference if he were to study a different subject. Would he still commit the same crimes? Or would he have been safe from what was to become of him? “Natural philosophy is the genius that has regulated my fate; I desire, therefore, in this narration, to state those facts which led to my predilection for that science.” (2.6) Victor believes that his vengeance for science was the cause of him becoming so inhumane. Although it is not for certain he would not have created, there is a chance that he would not have been as passionate about his
Frankenstein became presumptuous with his need to achieve his goals and believed everything was moral under scientific research. However, this proved to be fatal not only to him but his innocent family as he was wary of his own responsibilities. Also, Mary Shelley is seen warning the readers about having knowledge. She believes there is good knowledge; however, having too much good knowledge may not always be ideal. This is seen in Frankenstein, his means of creation had a beneficial purpose, he just wasn’t able to see past his goal as he was blinded it. This caused Frankenstein to act out in immoral activities and consider unethical approaches.
Throughout the novel, Frankenstein shared a common theme of most scientists of his time and that is to become the greatest (omniscient). Striving for success is not a bad thing until it becomes an addiction that decides one’s path. Frankenstein foregoes his responsibilities in place for scientific research and creation. Is it moral to have such knowledge and use it unethical ways? There isn’t any direct passage of knowledge being the monster, everything is in connotations or is implied. The text was an easy read; however, would have been better if the author didn’t use her experiences to write the novel (bias). As it becomes comparison and the reader can be confused with who the monster really