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Essay / Conformity in George Orwell 1984
Table of ContentsThe role of conformity in 1984The effects of conformity on individualsRepercussions of non-conformityThe relevance of conformity in today's societyConclusionIn the 1984 dystopian novel, the The theme of conformity is prevalent throughout the narrative. The society described in the novel is one in which conformity is imposed by the ruling party and individuality is suppressed. The protagonist, Winston Smith, is a symbol of resistance to conformity, as he rebels against the oppressive rule of Big Brother. This essay will explore the theme of conformity in 1984, examining how it is represented in the novel and its implications for society. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”?Get the original essayThe Role of Conformity in 1984Conformism in 1984 is a tool used by the ruling party to maintain control over the population. The party enforces conformity through various means, such as surveillance, propaganda, and manipulation of language. One of the most striking examples is the concept of Newspeak, a language designed to eliminate unorthodox thinking. By controlling language, the party seeks to control the thoughts and behavior of citizens, ensuring that they conform to the party's ideology. Additionally, constant surveillance in Oceania serves to instill a sense of paranoia and fear, leading individuals to self-censor. thoughts and conform to party expectations. TV screens, present in every home and public space, are a constant reminder that the party is watching, further reinforcing the need for conformity. The Effects of Conformity on Individuals In 1984, conformity has a profound impact on the individual psyche. The protagonist, Winston Smith, struggles with the pressure to conform to the party's ideology while harboring thoughts of rebellion. His desire for individuality and freedom conflicts with the party's demands for conformity, leading to inner turmoil and a sense of alienation. Additionally, the lack of individuality in Oceania leads to a feeling of dehumanization, with people becoming mere cogs in the party machinery. The suppression of personal identity and expression results in a society devoid of creativity and innovation, as individuals are discouraged from thinking independently or questioning the status quo. Repercussions of non-compliance In 1984, non-compliance had serious consequences. Those who deviate from the party's ideology are subject to torture, imprisonment, and even death. The character of Syme, for example, is eliminated by the party because he is too intelligent and therefore potentially dangerous. It serves as a chilling reminder of the fate that awaits those who dare to express independent thoughts or resist conformity. Furthermore, the party's manipulation of reality through propaganda and historical revisionism makes it difficult for individuals to discern truth from lies, further inhibiting any form of non-compliance. The constant rewriting of history serves to erase any evidence of dissent, reinforcing party control over the narrative and discouraging individuals from questioning the status quo. The Relevance of Conformity in Today's Society Although 1984 is a work of fiction, its themes of conformism and totalitarianism are relevant to contemporary society. In today's world, there are many examples of governments and institutions seeking to control the thoughts and behavior of the population, often through surveillance, censorship and propaganda. The rise of social media and the digital age has also.