Chapter 1: Mary Shelley’s Awakening

In the year 1818, Mary Shelley emerged as a literary voice of profound significance. At just sixteen, she penned what is recognized as the first major critique of the Industrial-Scientific Revolution, crafting a narrative that is often hailed as the inaugural work of science fiction. However, her story delves far deeper, reflecting a keen awareness of the social and industrial upheavals of her time—issues that continue to captivate and entrap us today.

Shelley narrates the tale of Dr. Victor Frankenstein, a scientist who assumes the role of a creator, fashioning a being in his own likeness—an unnamed entity that symbolizes "everyman." This character resonates with us all, representing the universal human experience.

Most individuals familiar with this narrative do so through its Hollywood adaptations, which often present a distorted and superficial interpretation. These films cater to our baser instincts, evoking fear and excitement while straying far from Shelley's original themes. Nevertheless, these adaptations inadvertently address a critical question posed by Shelley: Is it acceptable to wield technology to conjure monstrosities? The prevailing cultural response has historically been that it's permissible, provided it generates profit, echoing a long-standing ethos of greed and unchecked human pride.

hu·bris

[ˈ(h)yo͞obrəs]

NOUN

1. excessive pride or self-confidence:

ORIGIN

(in Greek tragedy) excessive pride toward or defiance of the gods, leading to nemesis.

In her original 1818 text, Shelley articulates a truth we often acknowledge yet conveniently overlook: our fascination with the promises of science and industry, despite their repeated failures to deliver. This historical narrative is driven by the inflated self-assurance of a select few, who subjugate the many while the majority remains apathetic or resigned to their powerlessness. It is also a commentary on Western culture's infatuation with intellect and rationalism.

Within the narrative, Dr. Frankenstein assembles his creature from various human remains, resulting in a figure that is both grotesque and pitiable. Unlike the mute portrayal in the 1931 film, Shelley's creature is articulate and introspective, ultimately becoming Dr. Frankenstein's philosophical adversary.

"I am malicious because I am miserable," the vengeful creature asserts to Victor Frankenstein. Through their discussions, Shelley compels us to ponder: who truly embodies the beastly nature?

As the creature engages in dialogue with Victor, Shelley prompts us to confront an ethical dilemma applicable to all scientific and industrial endeavors: "Just because we can, should we?" This is not a trivial inquiry; it encapsulates the dangers of scientific hubris.

"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," declares Dr. Victor Frankenstein.

Chapter 2: The Dark Legacy of Eugenics

In 1944, as Allied forces liberated Europe, the inhumane reality of the Nazi regime's reliance on brutal exploitation became painfully clear. Not only were countless individuals subjected to horrific experimentation, but many scientists also participated in these atrocities under the guise of progress. The systematic targeting of marginalized communities further exemplified the chilling consequences of scientific ambition devoid of ethical considerations.

The movement of Eugenics, which sought to engineer a "superior" humanity by eliminating perceived undesirable traits, had gained traction in both Europe and America. Prominent figures across various fields—including statisticians, economists, and geneticists—supported this ideology, which stemmed from the pioneering work of Gregor Mendel in the 19th century.

Yet, the roots of this disturbing trend can be traced back much further. For centuries, humanity has engaged in selective breeding, yet the mathematical frameworks established by Mendel int