Stranger Things!

In the rural town of Hawkins, Indiana lies the Hawkins National Laboratory supposedly utilized for research purposes for the DOE (United States Department of Energy). However, in secret, the company performs experiments to explore the supernatural world. In doing so, they create a portal to the “Upside Down”- an alternative dimension which possesses a certain evil aura. More specifically, the Demogorgon. The opening of this portal brings about mysterious changes to the city of Hawkins. Will Byers, a local middle schooler, goes missing while riding his bike home late at night; the owner of a restaurant is murdered without cause. These enigmatic experiences have led three boys on a mission: to find the cause of the evil and, ultimately, save Hawkins. On the journey, many more strange events occur. Barb, a local high schooler, goes missing, a girl with mystical superpowers is discovered, etc. If any of you have watched the show Stranger Things on Netflix, you most definitely know what I am referring to (sorry if I spoiled anything). But the point is, discovery of an unknown realm of the world (literally, in this case), can have dire consequences. Knowledge is power, but with power comes responsibility. Although this is a fictional example, the consequences in the real world must be fully considered. Whether it be the two men in Brazil, the discovery of radium, or even the “autoluminescent tobacco plant,” the dangers associated with scientific discovery are always looming. As Raymo says, “the unexamined quest for knowledge is hemmed with peril.”