1984 is a dystopian novel by George Orwell written in the 1940’s where the citizens are under strict omnipresent surveillance. ‘Big Brother’ is the eternal supreme leader of the world they live in, he sees, hears everything and read your thoughts. In this dehumanizing society, individual freedom and human connection are cherished and anyone behaving « differently » is eliminated.It is a book defending freedom of speech and individuality.
In Orwell’s books, the theme of “ equality” often comes back. His argument is specifically that we could be all equal but no one really wants it in reality. That as soon as a system get close to that ideal, men impose/create distinctions.Why? Because they want power and privileges. The Animal Farm by the same author shows it well.
Beyond equality there are the issues of srict bureaucracy, government methods to stay in power indefinitely and manipulation of the masses that are beautifully illustrated. Known for its aversion for capitalism as well as authoritarian regime Orwell is clearly criticizing those regimes.
This dystopian society curiously reminds us of the world we live in today. The mass surveillance through internet and technology allow any government to spy on their citizens 24/7 even if we live in a democratic country. The book can make us question our condition, in addition to the permanent records we are accumulating daily we also have our thoughts and data analyzed and used to influence our choices and habits.
Today society ressembles 1984 but without the aparent lack of freedom.
We are fast approaching what A. Huxley describes in The Best of Worlds: a perfect dictatorship with the appearance of democracy, a prison without walls from which prisoners would not dream of escaping, in love with their servitude.
Do we really make individual choices? Is the relationship between security and privacy really for our good or the states? Guaranteeing our security and keeping our privacy is now a profitable business for big private companies. Is 2020 the tome 2 of 1984 ?
A few intersting quotes to reflect on from the book:
“We know that no one ever seizes power with the intention of relinquishing it.”
“The masses never revolt of their own accord, and they never revolt merely because they are oppressed. Indeed, so long as they are not permitted to have standards of comparison, they never even become aware that they are oppressed.”
Bonus. “ Big Brother” and the expression “ Big brother is watching you” come from this book.
Overbooked by Moss 
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