BNW Comparisons

Write a well-developed paragraph analyzing the similarities between modern America and the society described in Brave New World. Find at least three similarities to discuss.


In the novel Brave New World, the major issue present is the control of the citizens of this society. The mean used to achieve this control is technology. Their advanced scientific procedures have allowed them to create and control their ideal society. Although in our society, we don't create and condition through technology, it does dictate popularity and trends. We are very technology oriented and dependent. The majority of our past times deal with technology as does BNW with the feelies and scent organs. Similar to technology, is the drive for consumerism. In Brave New World, their physical activities (games, etc.) are very elaborate. They mention playing obstacle golf a lot and the requirement that any new game must use most apparatus than the previous one. This correlates with our economic drive as well. Americans are always looking for the next bigger and better thing to come along and replace the old. This is good for the economy and reflects in Brave New World as they are not struggling in that sense. The other connection I can see is that both society's citizens have a deeply seeded sense of entitlement. In Brave New World, their theory that everyone belongs to everyone else makes this evident. In America, individuals do not feel entitled to one another, but to possessions. Not necessarily other people's possessions, but possessions in general. Americans are always willing to find methods of getting the things they desire, whether they need them or not. Just like Lenina went to great pain to get John's attention. Both societies will do whatever it takes to get what they want.