The Dangers of Science - "Brave New World" as a warning.

Authors Avatar by gchamber (student)

Why? not Why Not?

        Science fiction literature has come a long way since the early roots of the 18th century stories about voyages to the moon and planets and visitors from the same, written by authors such as Voltaire.  As science fiction has evolved, so has the science itself.  Scientific developments, as “predicted” by many science fiction authors, have come to pass in reality; and now, in this advanced state of technology that is the modern world, the question must be asked, why?  This question of “why” is both a physical and ethical debate.  Also, if the world is on the brink of everything that science fiction has thus far presented, then what is the next step for humanity?  The abovementioned questioned can be surmised into the following, just because we (the human race) can, does that mean we should (in relation to scientific experimentation and research)?  There are advocates for both sides of this argument.  There are those that believe that any and all opportunities should be taken regarding scientific development meanwhile, there are others that have to question taking such actions.  

        The question of “just because we can, does that mean we should” is comprised of two parts.  First, the issue of morality in regards to scientific advancement.  Scientific advancement, when it comes to morality has seen a lot of controversy.  One such literary work that demonstrates this point is that of Aldous Huxley entitled “Brave New World”.  The novel is full of morally controversial sciences including cloning, predestined beings, and a drug (Soma) controlled populous.  Cloning: in his novel, all beings are genetically engineered, using a scientific process that predestines each being based on certain genes, oxygen levels, exposure to x-rays, acid baths and many other factors.  These predestined beings are ranked using greek letters; each letter referring to a certain level intellect, beauty, and job positions.  For example, Alphas were in the highest caste bracket possessing the highest intellect, physical beauty, and top tier careers.  Each letter following is a little less than the former, where the lowly Epsilons are deemed hideous and very unintelligent.  All of the levels of the caste system are given a ration of a feel good drug called Soma and this drug is what keeps the populous happy and under control.  The novel allows readers insight into a strictly scientific society that uses all of the science available to the fullest extent.  All of the issues addressed in this novel are now modern day concerns.  Cloning is on the cusp of success; “there are two kinds of human cloning---research, or therapeutic, limited to a few cells for use in research or a medical therapy, and reproductive, where cells would be allowed to mature and be born.”(Graves 1)  In “A Grave New World”, the author Henry Baker states, “In Brave New World, posthumanity has been brought on by a more charming scientific oppression. Birth has been moved entirely from the womb to the laboratory. Genetics predetermines social position and function. The mass of men and women are merely two-dimensional characters who don’t trouble themselves with history, focus largely on entertainment, and believe it is “better to take a gramme, than to give a damn.” Anti-depressants, birth control, and consumerism are the thin trinity that gives shape to their days. Sound familiar?” (Baker 3)  Baker presents a strong argument for morality of certain scientific endeavors concerning plastic surgery when he states, “we continue to raise the stakes on appearance and prove we didn’t really mean it when we said beauty is just skin deep” (Baker 4) and “it seems that the hottest new cosmetic surgical procedure is what’s called a hymenoplasty. You guessed it: Women are paying upwards of $5,000 to have their hymens reattached in order to experience virginity—again. The practice began in the Middle East and Latin America, where things can get a little dicey if on her wedding night a bride should prove less “pure” than expected. Now US women are getting into the act as well, only here the procedure is primarily used by married females who want to give their husbands the gift of their virginity—to “add that extra sparkle to our marriage,” as one patient put it recently in the Wall Street Journal.”(Baker 6)    

Join now!

        Often, religion is pitted against science in a standstill battle, one group not being able to persuade the other and vice versa.  Many religious groups view modern day science as blasphemous and unnatural.  As Baker put it, “medical science is being asked to somehow restore a disruption in the natural order” (corresponding to the abovementioned) (Baker 7)  In Huxley’s future however, religion is almost non-existent, the closest parallel being that of the “community sing” which is essentially, “a parody of the Christian Mass led by the Arch Community Songster and designed to create solidarity among caste members.” (Baker 6)  The ...

This is a preview of the whole essay