IndexIntroductionBody ParagraphsConclusionIntroductionFlowers for Algernon, a science fiction novel by Daniel Keyes, tells the story of Charlie Gordon, an intellectually disabled man who undergoes an experimental surgery to increase his intelligence . The novel raises several ethical questions regarding scientific experimentation, the treatment of individuals 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 Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay Body Paragraphs One of the central ethical issues in Flowers for Algernon is the question of whether it is morally justifiable to use human beings, especially those with intellectual disabilities, as subjects in scientific experiments. Although medical advances often rely on human experimentation, the potential for exploitation and harm raises serious ethical concerns. The novel highlights these concerns through Charlie's experiences, as he is initially unaware of the full implications of the surgery and struggles to cope with the consequences of his newfound 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 adequate informed consent (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2021). Flowers for Algernon also explores the treatment of individuals with intellectual disabilities, both in scientific research and in society at large. The novel challenges the reader to consider 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 those with intellectual disabilities (Keyes, 1966). A real-life example of this ethical concern can be found in eugenics. movement of the early 20th century, during which individuals with intellectual disabilities were often sterilized against their will in an attempt to “improve” the human gene pool. 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 his intelligence increases, Charlie 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 overcoming those limits in the pursuit of scientific progress (Keyes, 1966). A counterargument to this concern might be that human enhancement could lead to significant improvements in the quality of life, not only for people with disabilities but also for the general population. For example, advances in prosthetics and brain-computer interfaces have the potential to greatly improve the lives of people with physical disabilities or conditions.