Response: Inspirational Literature

In response to Jacob Wheeler's post "Dissemination" (April 15, 2012):

I agree that literature can help disseminate information unrelated to ethics.  One particular use of this ability is inspiration.  A text utilising emotionally charged language to describe the exploits of scientists might inspire readers to pursue the study of science themselves.  Of course, they may find that it is not as thrilling as depicted in the text, but hopefully some of them would continue their studies regardless.

Such use of literature requires caution, however.  Inaccurate portrayals of certain careers, activities, or other aspects of life may at first inspire readers to take action based off the text, and then result in their eventual disillusionment because of the text's lack of accuracy.  This would actually cause more harm than good in terms of whatever the text's writer hoped to accomplish.