Reflection On The Society Of Anthem

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Anthem takes place in a future dystopian society in which every facet of its member’s lives is controlled. This society came into existence after a great war. The leaders have suppressed any information about pre-war life in the age known as the “Unmentionable Times.” All remnants of the “Evil Ones” were destroyed and society has reverted to the dark ages. The leaders fear independence of mind. Individuals have no rights and exist solely to serve society. They must spend their lives working the job that is chosen for them. They have no personal lives and cannot choose their friends or romantic partners. The word “I” has been erased from their language and is the “Unspeakable Word” that they must never speak lest they be killed. Only collectivist thoughts and speech are permitted. I would not like to live in the society of Anthem. Individuality and freedom are very important to me. Like Equality 7-2521, I enjoy solitude and can’t imagine living in a society where I would be punished for going off by myself and having moments of quiet reflection. This society has erased the things make life worth living, such as love, joy, and humor. …show more content…

Our society doesn’t come near the level of collectivism that the society of Anthem has. However, I could see us moving further into that direction. There is ever-increasing government regulation in America. Throughout our lives we are being examined by others and compared to societal norms and conditioned to conform to the norm. In a sense, we are a nation of followers and we tend to just go along with whatever the popular opinion is. Many hold back from expressing themselves out of fear that it will make others reject them or their ideas. I believe that progress can only be made when independent thinking is encouraged. It is important that we don’t forget what made our country

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