John Scalzi - Are Mad Scientists Unfairly Maligned?
I have something a little different for you today, folks. With Halloween coming up, a lot of horror-oriented science fiction films will be screened so that we can be spooked and scared on that creepiest of nights. But what if those films contained prejudices? Stereotypes? Unfair representations? Would it change the way you look at these films?
It just might. And with me today is someone who wants to fight against those stereotypes. Sir, please tell the folks at home who you are.
A: I am Dr. Hermann von Gliebstein, public relations director for the International Society of Mad Scientists. I'm also occasionally the despot of Gjirokastër, which incorrect maps will tell you is an Albanian province.
Q: Just occasionally?
A: It depends on whether my terrifying army of laser-wielding robot giraffes is functional or not. They're notoriously finicky.
Q: I see. Why giraffes?
A: Quite obviously because robot monkeys were already taken. But this is not about me. It's about mad scientists in general.
Q: Quite right. Now, tell us what your problem is with movies that have mad scientists in them.
A: I think it's simple, don't you? Have you ever seen a positive portrayal of a mad scientist in a movie? You have not. Because they don't exist. It's always mad scientist creates horrible monster, mad scientist raises the undead, mad scientist unleashes plague upon mankind, everyone dies, blah blah blah. It's awful.
Q: Give an example.
Continue reading "John Scalzi - Are Mad Scientists Unfairly Maligned?" »
• Now this is my new RPG: 
