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The consequences of absolute power and total control. That was Huxley’s main theme in Brave New World. Want to know more? We’ve got the 60-second scoop just for you.

Video Transcription:

You don’t even need my help on this one. It’s obvious, right? Huxley’s number one theme is: The consequences of absolute power and total control. I’ll have more on this theme right after the break.

Think about all the ways the World State establishes control in this story. Technology. Genetic Engineering. Mesmerism and hypnotism—otherwise known as mind control. The World State even controls history and truth—conveniently altering them to further solidify its own power.

Now keep in mind that unlike in other dystopian novels, in this book, no one needs to be tortured or spied on for the government to maintain control. In Brave New World, control starts before birth in a process that actually manipulates what people desire.

In the World State, the citizens are so happy and satisfied—they have everything they want, from crazy amounts of sex and drugs to unlimited consumer goods—that they never even bother to recognize (let alone question) their lack of freedom.

But this unrelenting, ironclad control comes with its own consequences. The society in Brave New World is completely devoid of values, morals, emotions, art, or any kind of authentic individuality. Not only is this a society that has lost its way, but its citizens have actually lost their humanity.