It's grossly immoral to maim another person's body.
Richard is a medical researcher up for tenure if only his research on methods for replacing fingers had enough subjects.
Richard needs to find one more subject for his research.
Richard expands his search to include groups historically underrepresented in research.
Richard chops the finger off of his research assistant without his consent.
Richard gets a few more subjects and proves his theory.
Richard is blacklisted from universities as he serves time in jail for assault.