University of Tasmania
Browse

File(s) under permanent embargo

Whatever happened to the ‘mad, bad’ scientist? Overturning the stereotype

journal contribution
posted on 2023-05-19, 07:41 authored by Roslynn HaynesRoslynn Haynes
The cluster of myths relating to the pursuit of knowledge has perpetuated the archetype of the alchemist/ scientist as sinister, dangerous, possibly mad and threatening to society’s values. Shelley’s Frankenstein provided imagery and a vocabulary universally invoked in relation to scientific discoveries and technological innovation. The reasons for the longevity of this seemingly antiquated, semiotic imagery are discussed. In the twenty-first century, this stereotype has been radically revised, even overturned. Scientists are now rarely objects of fear or mockery. Mathematicians, both real-life and fictional, are discussed here as being representative of scientists now depicted empathically. This article examines possible sociological reasons for this reversal; what the revisionist image suggests about society’s changed attitudes to science; and what might be the substitute fears and sources of horror.

History

Publication title

Public Understanding of Science

Volume

25

Pagination

31-44

ISSN

0963-6625

Department/School

School of Humanities

Publisher

Sage Publications Ltd

Place of publication

United Kingdom

Rights statement

© The Author(s) 2014

Repository Status

  • Restricted

Socio-economic Objectives

Expanding knowledge in language, communication and culture

Usage metrics

    University Of Tasmania

    Exports

    RefWorks
    BibTeX
    Ref. manager
    Endnote
    DataCite
    NLM
    DC