The scientific inaccuracies lurking in 'Stranger Things'
What's the story
Stranger Things enthralls viewers with its gripping storyline and supernatural elements. But when it comes to showcasing science experiments, the show tends to deviate from reality. Although the series is a work of fiction, it can lead to misconceptions about the scientific process. Here are some of the inaccuracies in the representation of science experiments in Stranger Things, where the show falters from reality.
Lab safety
Misrepresentation of lab safety
In Stranger Things, characters frequently conduct experiments without adhering to basic lab safety standards. In actual labs, safety is of utmost importance; strict guidelines and protective gear are mandated to avoid accidents and contamination. The show's portrayal misses these critical precautions, which could mislead viewers about the importance of safety in scientific research.
Experiment timelines
Unrealistic experiment timelines
In Stranger Things, complex experiments yield results almost instantly, which is far from the truth. Real-life scientific research demands meticulous planning and a whole lot of time, sometimes weeks or even months, to produce conclusive findings. This can set up unrealistic expectations about the speed of scientific breakthroughs, tricking viewers into thinking something is happening at the same pace in real life.
Scientific concepts
Oversimplification of scientific concepts
One thing that people should remember is that Stranger Things tends to oversimplify complex scientific concepts for the sake of drama. While it does make for an engaging story, it can lead some people to misunderstand how science works. Real-world science is all about detailed methodologies and rigorous testing, which are not accurately represented in the show.
Ethical considerations
Lack of ethical considerations
The show often neglects the ethics of experimenting on humans or animals. In reality, ethical guidelines are followed to the letter to ensure humane treatment and informed consent. The neglect of these details in Stranger Things may mislead viewers about how mindful ethics are in the world of scientific research.
Technological capabilities
Exaggerated technological capabilities
In Stranger Things, the portrayal of technology is so futuristic that it often exceeds our current capabilities. The gadgets and machines shown in the series do things that we still can't do in real life. This can fool people into thinking that technology is already at the stage where it's actually not, and it will go far beyond what we currently see.