How does this film exemplify the ethical paradigm of Utilitarianism?
The consequential perspective of ethical consideration considers happiness in determining the moral validity of an activity or event. When happiness seems to lack among people, an event that makes them unhappy qualifies as unethical ( Hollander, 2016) . Different forms of inequalities have always served as examples in explaining this paradigm as they present situations where minorities suffer while the rich remain happy. Implementing the theory requires an abolishment of inequality because it makes more people live a comfortable lifestyle.
"Gattaca" is a film that helps to present the social context and how it relates to the consequential theory. The use of DNA in this movie serves as a point of consideration in discriminating against people, making some unhappy and others happy. The genetic make-up is responsible for the lifestyles of people in this film and their accomplishments. Vincent represents the minorities who are not satisfied because of the denial of privileges; his DNA does not validate his dream of becoming an astronaut ( Niccol, 1997, 0:08:30) . Vincent's congenital heart problems add up to this genetic discrimination to have him think of scientific means of achieving happiness in this society. Removal of this regulation is necessary to promote happiness among the social group members in the movie. Jerome's move to sell Vincent his identity seems to have led him into being unhappy as he ended up committing suicide.
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How much does our DNA determine who we are as human beings?
The genetic make-up of people in the film helps to identify them as either fortunate or unfortunate. This scientific discovery, therefore, hinders Vincent from achieving his dreams. On the other hand, Jerome Morrow's DNA could help determine who he would be right from when he was a baby. Employment opportunities were a problem Vincent faced in his life (Niccol, 1997, 0:18:55). This case helps identify DNA as a determinant factor in selecting specific employment opportunities for some social groups, hindering other groups' achievements, and selecting people who need to be successful.
The need for Vincent to achieve what society does not advocate for led him to use science, changing his identification. Therefore, the main actor helps present his DNA change as the only way he would determine who he would be. The difference was useful in having Vincent present as Jerome Morrow, which made him part of the Gattaca Aerospace Corporation. DNA, therefore, serves as a necessity in the validation of dreams and achievements of every member of this society.
How does the main character move beyond societal expectations?
When a person needs to look like their counterpart, the physical characteristics must be among the considerations they have to evaluate. This requirement enables society to view the imitation as reality. Jerome was taller than Vincent; this meant that he had to go for surgery to become taller. Jerome also favored his left hand, which was among the physical characteristics the main character also had to evaluate. Society expected Vincent to avoid his eyeglasses to prevent suspicion from the authorities, which would lead him to use contact lenses.
Despite the above-stated expectations, Vincent put his effort into the most critical form of identification; the DNA. The use of blood, urine, and tissue for DNA validation was a measure that went beyond what many people would not expect. Vincent always provided Jerome's urine samples without the authorities' knowledge, which enabled him to become a valid member of the Gattaca Aerospace Corporation. Vincent's achievements using his false identity made doctor Lamar's son admire him. The doctor altered his invalid DNA results when he underwent the unexpected test (Niccol, 1997, 1:38:44). The move to use DNA made it hard for the investigations to always end up at him as the one with the invalid DNA; he still provided the valid one to protect his DNA from the authorities. The authorities and the general society were not aware of this trick.
References
Hollander, S. (2016). Ethical Utilitarianism and the theory of moral sentiments: Adam Smith concerning Hume and Bentham. Eastern Economic Journal , 42(4), 557-580. https://doi.org/10.1057/s41302-016-0003-z
Niccol, A. (1997). Gattaca . Columbia Pictures.
