The Morality of Manipulating the Memory

A major question raised in this novel is whether or not it is right to manipulate a person’s memory even if that person asks for the treatment. Frankie argues that her therapy benefits people and allows them to live their lives free from fear. When Todd begins using her therapy techniques to worsen her patients’ fears and then program them to have psychotic breakdowns, Frankie reasons that anything can be used for evil, just like it can be used for good. When Frankie learns that a portion of her own memory has been erased through a treatment her husband and sister claim that Frankie asked for, she realizes what it is like to lose part of her memory–a feeling she does not like.

When questions are first raised about Frankie’s treatments, Frankie argues that there is nothing immoral...