In the excerpt, Lingua Franca by Carole McDonnell, a clear distinction is made between the various caste present in the society through the use of scarves of different colors. Shadow-of-Light-Turning mentioned that Mist should still wear her green scarf that signified her as a member of the science class. There is a certain sense of pride in being associated with that particular caste. This is a sense of pride that all scientists generally possess due to their superior intellect. As a member of the science caste ones aim is not to blend in but to seek new knowledge. This caste system can also be seen in present society not to that extreme degree and in the Lost World. An example in the Lost World can be seen in the way Challenger acts throughout the novel in his manner of speech and the way he presents himself. Do you believe that the comparison is valid? If you do, are there any other examples that can be drawn from Lingua Franca or the Lost World?
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I agree that the way Challenger acts conveys the personal smugness that is perceived as a superiority complex. Challenger has little regard for anything but science, and what he views as important. This outlook can be seen in Lingua Franca, as each caste looks upon the others with a reserved disdain. The Lost World also portrayed a caste system, but this was based upon scientific intellect rather than occupation. In both writings the scientists cared only for science and what was important to their field of study.
ReplyDeleteI also agree that Challenger considers himself to be a part of a higher claste than most of his colleagues. However, I do not believe this is because he is a scientist. Challenger certainly sees scientists as superior socioeconomically, but I believe the majority of this is due to his excessive pride. If Challenger were a writer I believe he would consider himself to be superior to Shakespeare or Dante. His arrogance and condesention is most likely due to his character more so than to a social commentary Doyle is trying to make.
ReplyDeleteIn present society there certainly seems to be a bias towards scientists and related fields (ie engineering). Then again, throughout my education I have been told to look past this bias and see the value in all occupations. Though these biases may exist, I believe the majority of people understand that there are exceptions to this rule and that in reality the prejudice against liberal arts is unfounded.