Table of ContentsIntroductionBody ParagraphsConclusionIntroductionFlowers for Algernon, a science fiction novel by Daniel Keyes, tells the story of Charlie Gordon, an intellectually disabled man who undergoes experimental surgery to increase his intelligence. The novel raises several ethical questions regarding scientific experimentation, the treatment of people with disabilities, and the implications of human enhancement. This essay will critically examine the ethical dilemmas presented in Flowers for Algernon, focusing on the tension between scientific progress and the potential exploitation of vulnerable individuals. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned"?Get the original essayBody ParagraphsOne of the central ethical questions of Flowers for Algernon is the question of whether it is morally justifiable to use humans, particularly those with intellectual disabilities. , as subjects of scientific experiments. Although medical advances often rely on human trials, the potential for exploitation and harm raises serious ethical concerns. The novel highlights these concerns through the experiences of Charlie, who is initially unaware of the full implications of the operation and struggles to deal with the consequences of his new intelligence (Keyes, 1966). To further illustrate this ethical dilemma, one can consider the real-world example of the Tuskegee Syphilis Study, in which African American men were deceived and denied treatment for syphilis in order to study the progression of the disease. This unethical experiment, which lasted from 1932 to 1972, demonstrates the potential for exploitation and harm when vulnerable populations are used as research subjects without appropriate informed consent (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2021). Flowers for Algernon also explores the treatment of individuals. people with intellectual disabilities, both in scientific research and in society in general. The novel challenges the reader to question whether the benefits of scientific progress justify the potential harm inflicted on vulnerable populations. Furthermore, it raises questions about the value placed on human life and intelligence, as Charlie's transformation reveals the biases and prejudices faced by people with intellectual disabilities (Keyes, 1966). A concrete example of this ethical concern can be found in eugenics. movement of the early 20th century, during which people with intellectual disabilities were often sterilized against their will in an attempt to "improve" the human genetic heritage. This disturbing practice highlights the potential consequences of devaluing the lives and rights of people with disabilities (US National Library of Medicine, 2021). Another ethical dilemma presented in the novel concerns the potential consequences of human enhancement. As Charlie's intelligence increases, he becomes increasingly isolated from his former friends and community, highlighting the potential social and emotional costs of improving human cognition. This raises questions about the limits of human enhancement and the potential consequences of exceeding these limits in the pursuit of scientific progress (Keyes, 1966). A counterargument to this concern might be that human enhancement might lead to significant improvements in quality of life, not significant improvements in quality of life. only for people.