Post by ScreenHead One on Jul 20, 2022 10:23:36 GMT -6
Project MKUltra
(or MK-Ultra)
was the code name of an illegal human experimentation program designed and undertaken by the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency (CIA). The experiments were intended to develop procedures and identify drugs such as LSD that could be used in interrogations to weaken individuals and force confessions through brainwashing and psychological torture. MKUltra used numerous methods to manipulate its subjects' mental states and brain functions, such as the covert administration of high doses of psychoactive drugs (especially LSD) and other chemicals, electroshocks, hypnosis, sensory deprivation, isolation and verbal and sexual abuse, in addition to other forms of torture.
MKUltra was preceded by two drug-related experiments, Project Bluebird and Project Artichoke. It began in 1953, was reduced in scope in 1964 and 1967, and was halted in 1973. It was organized through the CIA's Office of Scientific Intelligence and coordinated with the United States Army Biological Warfare Laboratories. The program engaged in illegal activities, including the use of U.S. and Canadian citizens as unwitting test subjects. MKUltra's scope was broad, with activities carried out under the guise of research at more than 80 institutions, including colleges and universities, hospitals, prisons, and pharmaceutical companies. The CIA operated using front organizations, although some top officials at these institutions were aware of the CIA's involvement.
MKUltra was preceded by two drug-related experiments, Project Bluebird and Project Artichoke. It began in 1953, was reduced in scope in 1964 and 1967, and was halted in 1973. It was organized through the CIA's Office of Scientific Intelligence and coordinated with the United States Army Biological Warfare Laboratories. The program engaged in illegal activities, including the use of U.S. and Canadian citizens as unwitting test subjects. MKUltra's scope was broad, with activities carried out under the guise of research at more than 80 institutions, including colleges and universities, hospitals, prisons, and pharmaceutical companies. The CIA operated using front organizations, although some top officials at these institutions were aware of the CIA's involvement.
MK-Ultra in Fiction
Mk-Ultra has a specific genre dedicated to fictional accounts of specific subjects pertaining to 'super' spies, sleeper units, super soldiers, assassins and
various 'other' results of a secret governmental project designed to create or enhance human abilities.
Not only are there large collections of literature, movies and TV shows, whole franchises have been dedicated to exploring a fantasy accounting of MK-Ultra elements.
Many such fictional accountings are actually not a result of the MK-Ultra programs but are so similar in scope, they appear to be.
There usually isn't a direct reference made within the story to signify MK-Ultra origins.
Some storylines are so obviously MK-Ultra, no specific call-out is needed to make the connection.
Perpetuating The "Dark Project"/"Black Site" Mythos
Since the MK-Ultra Project was actually an illegal government initiative hidden from public disclosure,
any fictional 'Dark Project/Black Site' storyline can be attributed to similar secret government activities.
In reality, all governments must have 'secrets' to assure National Security.
The sad fact is, all governments have enemies and it would be unwise to publicize security initiatives.
However, what makes real Dark Projects/Black Sites legal is the fact they are subject to oversight.
In most fictional stories, the MK-Ultra effect is expanded by imagining the program never became public knowledge.
Stories create Dark Projects and Black Sites in a government full of conspiracy and lies.
People tend to 'believe' these fictional accounts because MK-Ultra did become public and was 'deemed' illegal.
If it has happened before, its probably happening now.
The Jason Bourne Effect
(Brainwashing)
In this scope, the subject is put through a rigorous program designed to change a normal person's identity
and enhance their abilities to focus on specific tasks and survival.
While still human, abilities and focus is enhanced which gives the subject advantage over other non-trained humans.
They usually have mentors and handlers, sometimes medics who administer enhancement drugs and psychological refreshers.
Super Spies, Sleeper Agents, Super Assassins and Fixers.
The Universal Soldier Effect
(Super-Human)
This scope of speculative fiction deals with changing the human body/mind by using chemicals, drugs or radiation.
The subject gains abilities not possible for normal human beings.
Subjects may or may not be resurrected from the dead.
Their abilities range from super-intelligence and super-strength to super-dexterity.
Many times they can survive physical damages which would kill a normal person.
The Steve Austin Effect
(Cybernetic Enhanced)
In this scope of science fiction, the subject is fitted with electronic or mechanical enhancements which enable
super-human activity while remaining to appear as a normal human being.
From specialized brain enhancements to replacement of skeletal structures.
Abilities range from direct computer interface to extreme strength and dexterity.
The BloodShot Effect
(Nano-Technology Entity)
Nanotechnology is a real field of science still in infancy. This scope deals with the highly advanced science fiction-fantasy
idea of molecular machines comprised of nano-assemblers, nano-disassemblers and nano-processors.
While appearing to be completely human, the subject may be entirely or partially constructed from these molecular machines.
Abilities range from being impervious to physical damage to manifestation of limb constructs such as weapons or wings.
The potential for expansion of abilities is only limited to the imagination of the writer.
Nanotechnology promises some very impressive possibilities.
If you are interested in nanotechnology and like to read about advanced technology
I suggest reading Eric Drexler's: Engines of Creation or visiting the Foresight Institute's website.
The Capt. Leo Effect
(Android Construct)
Completely science fiction, this scope focuses on fully mechanical constructs appearing as humans.
Governed by an artificial intelligence they are usually equipped with a control chip, program or code which
dictates their behavior and mission parameters.
Their abilities range from superior deception to extreme physical and mental capacity.
Fully superior to all humans, only their behavior modification devices keep them on task and benevolent to their human counter-parts.
Many stories explore the loss of control measures which allows the AI to mandate its own agenda over its human programming.
Discussion Suggestions
Suggestions for topics of discussion in this thread for movies based on the MK-Ultra Effect
~Movie-based government conspiracies and deceptions
~Movies based on fictional dark programs and black sites
~Characters subjected to fictional programs or government experiments
~Your favorite MK-Ultra Effect movies or characters