Examine how technology impacts human identity in Frankenstein by Mary Shelley and Blade Runner (based on Philip K. Dick’s Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? ). Are machines more or less “human” than people in these worlds?

**Technology and Human Identity in Frankenstein and Blade Runner: Are Machines More or Less “Human”?**

Technology’s influence on what it means to be human is a timeless question explored in literature and film. Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein and Ridley Scott’s Blade Runner (adapted from Philip K. Dick’s Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?) probe this theme by presenting worlds where artificial beings challenge human identity. But are these machines more or less “human” than the people around them?

The Creation and Humanity of Artificial Life

In Frankenstein, Victor Frankenstein’s monster is a patchwork of human parts brought to life through science. The creature’s struggle for acceptance and self-understanding foregrounds the tension between artificial creation and human essence. Despite his physical differences, the monster exhibits deep emotions, intelligence, and a longing for connection—qualities that question the boundary between human and machine.

Similarly, Blade Runner features replicants—bioengineered beings virtually indistinguishable from humans but designed as laborers. These replicants display emotions, memories, and desires, challenging the assumption that biological origin defines humanity. Their quest for identity and survival probes the ethical implications of creating life and what rights such beings should hold.

Technology’s Impact on Human Identity

Both works explore how technology blurs lines between creator and creation, and between human and artificial:

In Frankenstein, Victor’s hubris and rejection of his creation highlight fears about unchecked scientific advancement. The monster’s alienation reflects society’s failure to recognize his humanity, raising questions about empathy, responsibility, and what truly makes someone “human.”
Blade Runner presents a dystopian future where technology has commodified life itself. Humans in the film often seem detached or morally ambiguous, while replicants display raw, urgent emotions. This inversion complicates traditional definitions of humanity.

Are Machines More or Less “Human”?

Both texts suggest that humanity is less about origin and more about experience, consciousness, and emotional capacity:

Frankenstein’s monster, though artificially created, is deeply human in his suffering and yearning. His tragedy stems from being denied this humanity by others.
Blade Runner’s replicants arguably demonstrate greater empathy and self-awareness than many humans, blurring ethical lines about what entities deserve moral consideration.

Conclusion

Frankenstein and Blade Runner challenge us to rethink human identity in the age of technology. By presenting artificial beings with genuine emotions and desires, both question the essence of humanity beyond biology. In these worlds, machines may be just as “human” — or even more so — than the flawed creators who fear and reject them.