Trust in Humanity
One of the main themes of the novel that I mentioned in class, is the continuing struggle for trust. Dr. Moreau begins the novel with little trust of Prendick and that lack of trust is returned in kind. As the story develops, Moreau and Prendick begin to trust not only each other, but also the strange vivisected animal creation on the island. However, this trust is betrayed when the animals revert to their instinctual behavior and attack the humans. The novel closes with Prendick feeling alone in the world, unable to trust anyone.
The reason I feel that this is an important theme, is that trust is exactly what science demands from "non-expert" observers. Those who deal with the intricate complexities of cloning, genetics, or any controversial research ask that society trust them. One must trust that the science is being conducted for a beneficial purpose, and by decent means to ever truly accept it. I believe that Wells is arguing against a quick trust of individuals or even of anyone in general.
By demonstrating the human qualities of the monsters, Wells directs the book at human nature not necessarily animal instinct. Thus, even when Prendick returns to human society he finds himself unable to return to his normal life. He has experienced just how malevolent, cruel, and deceitful humans can be. He has learned that religion can be and is oppressive. He has lost his faith in anyone other than himself. While this is certainly a bleak perspective, Wells is using slight exaggeration to send his message. While maybe trust can be rightfully placed in certain individuals, to give it so freely and easily is dangerous. It was dangerous for Prendick, Moreau, and for the creatures and native who once inhabited the island. Furthermore, it would be dangerous in reality to so freely place society's trust in mysterious scientists and religious leaders.
The reason I feel that this is an important theme, is that trust is exactly what science demands from "non-expert" observers. Those who deal with the intricate complexities of cloning, genetics, or any controversial research ask that society trust them. One must trust that the science is being conducted for a beneficial purpose, and by decent means to ever truly accept it. I believe that Wells is arguing against a quick trust of individuals or even of anyone in general.
By demonstrating the human qualities of the monsters, Wells directs the book at human nature not necessarily animal instinct. Thus, even when Prendick returns to human society he finds himself unable to return to his normal life. He has experienced just how malevolent, cruel, and deceitful humans can be. He has learned that religion can be and is oppressive. He has lost his faith in anyone other than himself. While this is certainly a bleak perspective, Wells is using slight exaggeration to send his message. While maybe trust can be rightfully placed in certain individuals, to give it so freely and easily is dangerous. It was dangerous for Prendick, Moreau, and for the creatures and native who once inhabited the island. Furthermore, it would be dangerous in reality to so freely place society's trust in mysterious scientists and religious leaders.
posted by judge at 11:40 AM
1 Comments:
Also, Welles could be suggesting that trust is deeply tied into humanity. Moreau didn't command respect through trust with the Beast People, he demanded it with a whip (physical fear instead of deep-set emotion). Pendrick did manage to feel as if he trusted a few of his fellow islanders, but as they reverted back to animality (and away from humanity), he lost his security in his well-being.
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