Frankenstein and Hobbesian Philosophy

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Questions and Answers

What key theme in Frankenstein illustrates Victor's failure to nurture his creation?

Alienation (correct)

Romantic Critiques of Industrialization

The Sublime and Nature

Hubris and Creation

According to Hobbes, what leads to social order?

Individual self-interest

Natural moral laws

Collective agreement to submit to authority (correct)

Divine intervention

Which of the following reflects the consequences observed in the creature due to Victor's actions?

Desire for social recognition

Unchecked self-preservation instincts (correct)

Inspiration from nature

Emotional stability and acceptance

What aspect of Victor's ambition would Hobbes likely criticize?

His creation of the creature without responsibility Signup and view all the answers

What does the creature's plea for companionship signify in relation to societal rejection?

Consequences of isolation Signup and view all the answers

What could be seen as a parallel between Victor's abandonment of the creature and Hobbes' philosophy?

It results in a chaotic state of nature Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes a Romantic ideal reflected in Frankenstein?

The restorative power of nature Signup and view all the answers

What represents Victor's transgression against nature in Frankenstein?

His creation of a new species Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of care does Wollstonecraft emphasize as essential for the moral and intellectual growth of individuals?

Education and rationality Signup and view all the answers

How might Rousseau categorize the creature in 'Frankenstein' in relation to his view of human nature?

As a 'noble savage' corrupted by society Signup and view all the answers

What criticism would Wollstonecraft make regarding Victor’s treatment of the creature?

He fails to nurture and educate it Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best captures Rousseau's critique of Victor’s actions in 'Frankenstein'?

He disrupts natural harmony through arrogance Signup and view all the answers

According to Hobbes, how does the creature’s experience relate to the concept of the 'state of nature'?

It reflects chaos and self-preservation instincts Signup and view all the answers

What major philosophical agreement do Hobbes, Wollstonecraft, and Rousseau share concerning responsibility?

The role of education and nurturing in development Signup and view all the answers

How does Victor's neglect of the creature relate to Wollstonecraft's views on societal responsibilities?

It shows a failure to care for dependents Signup and view all the answers

How does Rousseau's notion of the 'noble savage' apply to the creature's transformation in the story?

Its violence stems from societal rejection Signup and view all the answers

In what way would Wollstonecraft assess the creature's ability to self-educate?

As proof of its rational capacity for improvement Signup and view all the answers

What underlying principle connects the views of Hobbes, Wollstonecraft, and Rousseau regarding ethical obligations?

That care and nurturing promote societal well-being Signup and view all the answers

What does Wollstonecraft believe should be prioritized in dealing with new creations or advancements?

Education and moral development Signup and view all the answers

What is one reason Hobbes argues for the establishment of authority in society?

To prevent chaos and ensure social order Signup and view all the answers

How might modern ethical discussions about artificial intelligence relate to Wollstonecraft's perspectives?

Emphasize education and moral responsibilities Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of the creature’s character development exemplifies Rousseau’s belief in human potential?

Its initial kindness and capacity for emotion Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Frankenstein and Philosophical Responses

Frankenstein's Themes: Exploration of creation, responsibility, alienation, and human knowledge limits. Victor Frankenstein's ambition leads to tragedy, reflecting 19th-century anxieties about scientific advancements and societal alienation.

Hobbes' Perspective

Hobbes' Key Ideas: Humans are naturally self-interested, existing in a "state of nature" (solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, and short). Social order comes from a social contract and submitting to a sovereign authority. Human creations, like government or artificial beings, need oversight for proper function.
Hobbes on Frankenstein: Criticizes Victor's hubris for disrupting the natural order by creating life. Victor's abandonment of the creature leaves it in a "state of nature," creating a threat. The creature's actions are consequences of unchecked self-preservation in the absence of societal restraints. Hobbes would advocate for governance to control unchecked power.
Supporting Evidence: Victor's abandonment parallels Hobbes' chaotic "state of nature." The creature's misery and violence reflect the dangers of social isolation.

Wollstonecraft's Perspective

Wollstonecraft's Key Ideas: Advocates for rationality, education, and equality. Criticizes societal structures that marginalize individuals. Emphasizes the moral and intellectual responsibility of caregivers and educators.
Wollstonecraft on Frankenstein: Condemns Victor for neglecting the creature. Abandoning the creature denies it the education and socialization needed for moral and intellectual development. Views the creature as a metaphor for marginalized groups. The creature's violence stems from lack of guidance and acceptance, not inherent nature. Advocates for education to transform the creature.
Supporting Evidence: The creature's self-education shows its capacity for learning and emotional depth. Victor's negligence contrasts with her emphasis on nurturing and educating dependents.

Rousseau's Perspective

Rousseau's Key Ideas: Humans are inherently good in their natural state but are corrupted by society. Civilization creates artificial hierarchies, causing suffering. Emphasizes harmony with nature and community's role in shaping morality.
Rousseau on Frankenstein: Sees the creature as a "noble savage," initially pure, corrupted by society's rejection and cruelty. The creature's descent into violence reflects societal corruption. Victor's attempt to control nature highlights the Enlightenment's arrogance. Advocates for the creature's acceptance into society, emphasizing compassion and community.
Supporting Evidence: The creature's initial kindness (helping the De Lacey family) mirrors Rousseau's belief in inherent goodness. The creature's suffering illustrates society's corrupting influence.

Comparative Analysis and Discussion Points

Responsibility and Governance: Hobbes emphasizes authority, Wollstonecraft highlights nurturing, and Rousseau criticizes societal corruption.
Human Nature: Hobbes views humans as self-interested, Wollstonecraft as rational and improvable, and Rousseau as inherently good but corrupted by society.
Modern Relevance: How do these perspectives apply to contemporary issues in AI, genetic engineering, and ethical obligations? How does the creature's alienation relate to current marginalization problems?

Brief Answers to Selected Questions

Creature's experience and Hobbes' state of nature: Creature's abandonment mirrors the chaotic "state of nature" characterized by self-preservation and lack of governance.
Wollstonecraft's view on the creature's reflection of societal failure: The creature is a victim of societal prejudice and lack of nurturing, education, and guidance.
Rousseau's "noble savage" and the creature's journey: The creature embodies Rousseau's "noble savage", initially pure but corrupted by rejection and societal mistreatment.
Thinkers' differing interpretations of Victor's responsibility:
Hobbes: Victor failed to govern his creation.
Wollstonecraft: Victor failed to nurture and educate the creature.
Rousseau: Victor disrupted the natural order and failed to create a compassionate communal environment.
Lessons from Frankenstein for modern ethical dilemmas: Hobbes: strong governance and oversight. Wollstonecraft: nurture and education. Rousseau: avoid arrogance, seek harmony and compassion.

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Description

This quiz delves into the philosophical themes of Mary Shelley's 'Frankenstein' and the implications of Hobbes' theories. Explore the themes of creation, responsibility, and social order as they relate to Victor Frankenstein's tragic ambition and the creature's existence in a 'state of nature'.