Science, technology, and cooperation are probably the main tools that have allowed us to fend off monsters. The word “monsters” usually speaks of beings that can easily overpower and kill us, and Humanity has had—and continues having—dealings with many of those.
Some if these monsters are very well-known, like the various species of saber-toothed tigers (imagine a lion-like animal more or less built like a bear, with a bad attitude and sporting a pair of 20-inch canines).
Some other monsters are not as famous, like the ancient reptile Megalania, which probably interacted with early settlers of the Australian region (imagine a 20-plus feet venomous reptile). In fact, it has been suggested that Megalania is the largest venomous animal ever discovered. Moreover, as unlikely as it is, some say that Megalania is still around in the remote Australian wilderness. Frankly, I wouldn’t be surprised. Stranger things have happened.
Then again, monsters are sometimes not so easy to see. Think about viruses and other microorganisms (just think of our current situation, the first viral pandemic in more than a century). In all fairness, the vast majority of viruses and bacteria are not harmful, and some are even beneficial to us. However, there are some of those which will easily kill us as any macroscopic monster can.
Thar said, science gave us the tools to recognize them for what they are; they are not bad spirits, or witchcraft, but biological entities that we can kill. We have used science and technology to invent medications, sterile techniques, and other strategies to keep these tiny beasts at bay.
In a science fiction novel, titled “Monsters“, author Peter Cawdron explores one of the possible futures in which humanity turned away from science and its little sister, technology, and the dire consequences that this brought upon us.
From the author: “The thrust of “Monsters” is that monsters come in all shapes and sizes (from bacteria to people wanting to rule the world), and that we shouldn’t take the times in which we live for granted. The scientific knowledge we have accumulated is precious and extremely rare in this history of mankind. It could be lost quite easily to monsters.”
My favorite scene from the novel, you ask?
“Look at me. I am a general. I command thousands.”
Bruce pulled his lips tight with disdain. He spoke softly, but with depth and resonance in his voice.
“I am a reader. I command monsters.”
PLEASE read it; you will not be disappointed. I think it would make a great movie and I have said so at every possible opportunity…
Full disclosure – Peter Cawdron is a friend, a best-selling author, and a fellow blogger, and I happen to like his writing very much. I read an advanced copy of the novel. He gave me permission to quote it.
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Great post… it’s interesting to hear your thoughts about the two politicians as I’ve followed both of those stories with surprise and interest. As bad as their comments are, the worst aspect of all this is that there are people who listen to and respect them.
Monsters was a really fun story to write. Glad you enjoyed it, and yes, that’s my favourite scene too 🙂 I hope it helps promote the joy of reading and the importance of science.
My state has a senator who is a physician. I tried many times to get him to explain the science behind his support of wind turbines. He did not. Now he has removed his support, not because the turbines don’t do what is promised and are damaging in many ways, but because it is no longer popular to hand out federal money everywhere. It was quite disturbing that the science had no effect what-so-ever on his decisions.
I agree that hypocrisy is one of the worst attributes a person can have. Sadly, it seems widespread through all levels of society.
The book sounds very interesting and I will note the release date on my calendar!
Thank you for your kind words!!!
Monsters are us or our creation and it is fitting to include an exerpt that shows the writer manipulating such monsters because they are quickened from the human imagination and feed on our fear. They lurk in the dark corners of human ignorance.
Although science itself is a social construct, it is the process of overcoming fear and prejudice for the sake of the truth that is what makes science noble.