Charlie Gordon’s Flowers for Algernon: Gambling With Neurons

35,000 years ago, Homo Sapiens (modern man) first evolved and since the dawn of our existence, we have eagerly explored our environment. The knowledge man has acquired through lifetimes of discovery is incredible. Yet, not until recently has a certain magnetism to understand our own selves developed. We have spawned a thirst to grasp our mental capabilities and, as a result, have started to tinker with what many believe is “God’s work alone.” Renowned author, Daniel Keyes, wrote the story Flowers for Algernon (later lengthened to a novel) on the subject for The Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction in 1959, which cryptically stated his personal views on the matter.

To begin with, Keyes cleverly hid the message that everyone has a certain brain capacity by birth, which can not be altered permanently. For instance, his main character, Charlie Gordon, had an I.Q. of 68 during the story’s exposition. After an operation, his score was tripled, making him a genius. However, after only several months, his I.Q. reverted back to 68. Despite his efforts, he could not demonstrate the amazing mental strength he had in the past. The author was discreetly warning the reader that science has flaws and can not change what has been instilled by nature.

Additionally, it was stated that a lack of communication is the main reason for most experimental failures. Once Charlie was able to read in multiple languages, he studied the findings of foreign scientists, concerning neuroscience. When he asked the men responsible for his great intelligence conversion if they had read the same findings, they admitted that they had not. Those reports contained vital information directly pertinent to their experimentation, but due to the language barrier, the men were not being adequately informed.

Lastly, the story questioned the ethics of such interference. One minor character stated that Charlie’s dramatic transformation was “evil” and “not right.” Many of his factory coworkers agreed and signed a petition to have him dismissed. Perhaps, Keyes intended them to represent the numerous individuals who do not approve of artificially improving intelligence.

In conclusion, Daniel Keyes obviously felt strongly about this issue. His tapestry of opinions was sophisticated and showed intent thought. Flowers for Algernon demands all of us to be appreciative of the Charlie Gordons we encounter in our own lives. After all, with current technology, they may soon disappear.