The article explores the delicate balance between the freedom of scientific research, ethical principles, and legal constraints. Science, in its essence, is a driving force of progress and knowledge, but throughout history, it has often faced barriers imposed by political, religious, or economic interests. This contribution examines how modern legal systems regulate the freedom of research, analyzing the tensions between the need to protect fundamental rights, such as human dignity and environmental preservation, and the risk of limiting innovation and scientific debate. Through the analysis of international and European legal instruments, the article highlights how excessive regulation or censorship can stifle the potential of research. It also discusses the role of ethics in science, with a particular focus on the necessity of finding solutions that balance progress with responsibility. In conclusion, it proposes a normative model inspired by the myth of Prometheus, aiming to “free” science from its chains without abandoning the values that safeguard society and the planet.