Neurodivergence in Science Fiction: Identity, Ethics, and Technology as a "Cure" Público
Collett, Danielle (Fall 2021)
Abstract
This thesis investigates the representation of neurodivergence in two science fiction novels, Daniel Keyes’s Flowers for Algernon and Elizabeth Moon’s The Speed of Dark. Both novels explore similar themes of using advanced neurotechnology to “cure” the novels’ protagonists of their respective disabilities, thus raising ethical questions regarding the efficacy of such experiments and what they suggest about curing disability. Further, this work analyzes how Moon’s novel directly responds to Keyes' by deconstructing some of the stereotypes arising in Flowers and questioning the idea of normalcy and conformity within society. These novels use neurodivergent narration to guide their stories, creating new ways of understanding and interpreting different lived experiences. Thus, this thesis examines how science fiction novels can function as powerful media for exploring different forms of human thought, identity, and experience.
Together, Flowers and Speed of Dark serve as case studies to (i) delve deeper into how science fiction provides a lens to understand neurodiverse experience, (ii) raise awareness about the ways in which society continues to perceive disability, and (iii) confront stereotypes that continue to pervade society today. These case studies examine the neuroethical implications of the neuroscience research represented and explore how these artistic works of literature contribute to knowledge in ways that benefit the scientific community and society at large. Thus, an analysis of Flowers for Algernon and The Speed of Dark considers both the possibilities and consequences of experimental research—specifically neurotechnological advancement—and ultimately, how fictional works of literature can contribute to scientific discipline.
Table of Contents
Introduction
My Introduction: The World of Science Fiction..........................................................................1
Our Case Studies: Flowers for Algernon and The Speed of Dark...................................................7
Chapter One: Neurodivergent Narration and Storytelling…………….………………....................……13
The Role of Structure, Point of View, and Rhetorical Figures………………................……………….16
Confronting Cultural Narratives and Re-Telling the Religious Story……….............…...……..…….31
Chapter Two: Stereotypes, Relationships, and Technology as a “Cure”………………….....................43
Constructing and Deconstructing Stereotypes……………………………………….................………..43
On the Representation of Neurodivergent and Neurotypical Relationships……..........…………….53
Chapter Three: Neuroethics in Flowers for Algernon and Speed of Dark....................................... 63
Introduction to Neuroethics.................................................................................................. 63
The Ethics of Neuroscience.................................................................................................... 65
Treatment, Enhancement, and the 6 P’s...................................................................................78
Conclusion: Fiction’s Lessons for Science....................................................................................89
Works Cited..............................................................................................................................96
About this Honors Thesis
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