The Portrayal of Scientific Ethics in Frankenstein: Analyzing Victor Frankenstein’s Disregard for Morality in His Pursuit of Knowledge

The Portrayal of Scientific Ethics in Frankenstein: Analyzing Victor Frankenstein’s Disregard for Morality in His Pursuit of Knowledge

In Frankenstein, Victor Frankenstein’s unrelenting pursuit of scientific knowledge leads him to disregard ethical boundaries, with devastating consequences. His desire to push the limits of science by creating life represents a breach of moral responsibility. Shelley critiques the dangers of scientific experimentation without considering the ethical implications or the long-term effects on society and individuals.

Victor’s obsession with discovering the secret to life blinds him to the potential consequences of his actions. He becomes so consumed by his ambition that he fails to consider the moral responsibilities that come with creating life. The creature, his creation, is left abandoned, and its suffering becomes a direct result of Victor’s lack of foresight and disregard for ethics.

Through Victor’s actions, Frankenstein raises important questions about scientific responsibility. Shelley warns that the pursuit of knowledge, while valuable, must be tempered with moral consideration, particularly when it involves altering life itself. The novel serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked scientific ambition.