Topic > The Complete Review of Aldous Huxley's Brave New World

In the science fiction novel Brave New World, Aldous Huxley shows a "revolution of revolutions" resulting from technological advances. It does this by portraying a future BNW society seemingly perfect in every way. Everyone is happy. Everything exists in perfect order. Huxley, however, focuses on warning the reader about problems that may develop in the future such as promiscuity, lack of intimacy, etc. This future is truly a "revolution of revolutions" as social norms undergo a radical change into completely innovative, but sometimes corrupt forms. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an original essay This revolution is the direct result of a “Nine Year War”: a war so devastating that it nearly extinguished life on earth. Towards the end of this period, humanity as a whole grows tired of war and destruction, and therefore decides to seek answers through other means. The answer lies in advanced technology. Crediting the new foundation to industrial entrepreneur Henry Ford, the BNW company begins to take shape. Its motto becomes “community, identity, stability” and everything that promotes social disorder is quickly eliminated. This element precludes individuality and will later arouse conflict. Everyone thinks the same, acts the same, and generally lives the same in their respective class orders. This is made possible by developmental conditioning. From the moment of conception, human beings are subjected to technological conditioning that continues throughout their lives. All their thoughts and actions are conditioned by a pre-established pattern. Two techniques for establishing this are those of Pavlov and Skinner. The BNW company uses its discoveries to change the behavior of all people through various stimuli, response systems, rewards and punishments. An example is the electroshock treatment of children, training them to dislike and avoid flowers. As adults, they will avoid nature and contact, therefore, with lower class people. Another ongoing process is the use of Sigmund Freud's hypnopaedic method. This “sleep teaching” conditions people to think a certain way for the rest of their lives. They are brainwashed. The most important tool to bring about this revolution is genetic engineering. During embryonic development, people are "created with distinct characteristics to maintain the stability of society." In essence, a person's social class and intellectual capacity are predetermined at birth. Their likes and dislikes are already programmed. Individual thought and freedom, consequently, are non-existent. The main goal is compliance and stability. Everyone gets what they want, this is also planned, and everyone is happy. If the opposite ever happens, “there is always soma.” This drug addiction is the ultimate source of instant gratification and connotes a “quick fix mentality.” It indulges the senses, instills happiness and therefore promotes stability. John the Savage, however, detests all aspects of this revolution. Having been raised on the Reservation, he was not brainwashed by BNW conditioning. On the contrary, it has individuality, free choice and imagination. He recognizes these precious gifts of life and is amazed when he encounters civilization. John also realizes that "if one is different, one is bound to feel alone." That's how it feels after a while in the city. Cannot stand the lack of meaningful relationships, the lack of individuality of thought, and the constant need for immediate gratification. Ultimately, this forces him to move into the lighthouse.