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The Mysterious Benedict Society Essay

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The Mysterious Benedict Society Essay
The Mysterious Benedict Society, by Trenton Lee Stewart, is a powerful work of science fiction exploring the devastating, large-scale mental effects of a formidable new (fictional) device. This technological element places it firmly in the science fiction genre. It is a strong work of science fiction because it explores several different outcomes, rather than just one, of new technology. However, it stands out from other science fiction works in two ways: it utilizes a lighter tone and different setting than other science fiction works. The fact that the book has these two qualities yet includes all the elements that make it a strong science fiction work made it an intriguing read.
What makes this book science fiction? Essentially, the central plotline is driven by it; without the advanced technology featured in the novel and the science behind it, the plot wouldn’t happen. Conflict arises when an evil genius bent on world domination uses a powerful, thought-transmitting machine to send subliminal, brainwashing messages to the public. The novel also …show more content…
The Mysterious Benedict Society explores both possible outcomes; the thought-transmitting device used in the novel was capable of restoring lost memories as well as stealing, altering, or influencing thoughts. Many science fiction stories seem to show only positive or negative outcomes of new technology. For example, A Sound of Thunder by Ray Bradbury discusses the drastically negative effects that time travel can engender but doesn’t go as much into detail about the opportunities time travel can create. The fact that The Mysterious Benedict Society explores both the positive and negative effects of new technology made it a very thought-provoking
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