Final answer:
The conflict between morality and science is intense in both Mary Shelley's 'Frankenstein' and the real world today, with current scientific advancements raising complex ethical questions that have widespread societal impacts.
Step-by-step explanation:
The conflict between morality and science is a theme that resonates both in the fictional world of Frankenstein and in the real world today. In Frankenstein, the protagonist's scientific ambition leads him to create life, only to face profound ethical dilemmas as a result of his creation. This mirrors current debates in scientific fields such as genetic modification, artificial intelligence, and biotechnology, where the capabilities of science often outpace the ethical frameworks we have in place. Today, issues such as gene editing in embryos and the development of autonomous weapons systems raise critical moral questions that challenge our existing understandings of right and wrong.
In the real world, these conflicts may be more intense due to the broader impact of scientific advancements on society. While Frankenstein's monster faced ostracization and the ethical quandaries were mostly personal for Victor Frankenstein, today's scientific breakthroughs can affect entire populations. For instance, CRISPR-Cas9 technology allows for precise gene editing but raises concerns about potential misuse, eugenics, and unintended consequences. Similarly, the proliferation of AI has prompted discussions about the moral responsibility for decisions made by machines, job displacement, and the preservation of human autonomy.
Therefore, while the themes of moral and scientific conflict in Frankenstein are still relevant, today's real-world applications magnify these conflicts as society grapples with global moral implications of scientific progress.