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Essay / The importance of rules in The Giver: an analysis
In The Giver, written by Lois Lowry, rules are a central aspect of the society depicted. This society is designed to be a utopia, but it is also heavily controlled, with rules and regulations governing every aspect of life. Some will say that this level of control is necessary for a utopian society to function, while others will say that it goes too far and stifles individualism. In this essay, I will explore the role that rules play in The Giver and argue that while rules are necessary for a functional society, they must be balanced with individual freedom and autonomy to truly create a utopia. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get an original essay The first thing that stands out about society in The Giver is the control that elders have over all aspects of life. From the tasks people are assigned to the way they dress and behave, every detail is regulated. This is done with the idea that everyone will benefit from living in a society where everything is organized and structured. However, this type of control comes at a cost. On the one hand, it stifles creativity and encourages conformity. People are not free to express themselves or pursue their own interests. They are bound by the expectations of the society in which they live. Another aspect of society in The Giver is the use of rules to maintain order. Rules are put in place to avoid chaos and ensure everyone behaves appropriately. In this sense, rules are essential to creating a functioning society. Without them, people might act recklessly or selfishly, which could harm themselves or others. Rules provide a framework for behavior and help ensure everyone is on the same page. However, the problem with rules is that they can be too rigid. In The Giver, the rules are so strict that they leave no room for individualism or personal choice. This can be seen in the way jobs are allocated. People cannot choose what they want to do; they are simply told where they will fit best. This can ensure that everyone is doing what they do best, but it doesn't allow someone to want to follow a different path. Creativity is stifled in favor of efficiency. The theme of conformity is also present in The Giver when it comes to rules. Everyone is expected to follow the rules without question, and there is no room for criticism or dissent. This is seen in the way Jonas questions the rules of his society and encounters resistance from those around him. It is clear that questioning authority is not something that is encouraged in this society. While this can make things smoother, it also means people aren't able to think for themselves or question the status quo. In order to create a truly utopian society, rules must be balanced with individual freedom and autonomy. This means that while rules are important for maintaining order and preventing chaos, they must also be flexible enough to allow for personal choice and expression. People should be encouraged to question authority and think for themselves. Although this may lead to some chaos in the short term, it is ultimately the only way to create a truly just and equitable society. Keep in mind: this is just a sample. Get a personalized article from our expert writers now. Get custom essay..