The novel Brave New World by Aldous Huxley takes place in the distant future, in the world of consumption. All people live in the same state, their whole life is standardized to the smallest detail, and everyone knows their place and is obliged to obey everything that every member of society is taught almost from birth. Regardless of all the rights given to these individuals, there is still inequality between men and women, Alphas and Betas.
In society, there are no concepts of family or marriage; the words “mother” and “father” are considered indecent, and everything once natural is dirty and disgusting. People live in a “mutual use” mode, sexual partners change, and permanent connections are not welcome. When it comes to inequality, women were sterilized while men were not. In addition, the Malthusian belt – a means to stop childbirth – also limited women’s rights.
Moreover, the members of the lower castes are instilled with respect for the members of the higher castes, while the higher castes should dislike the lower ones. It is indicated in the line: “the lift was crowded with men from the Alpha Changing Rooms, and Lenina’s entry was greeted by many friendly nods and smiles” (Huxley 58). It shows everyone is happy about meeting Alphas, whereas Betas are treated poorly.
The inequality is vividly seen between these people in a way that Beta people still believe in spirituality, and gods, give birth naturally and are devoid of technology. These individuals claim: “But I don’t want comfort. I want God, I want poetry, I want real danger, I want freedom, I want goodness. I want sin” (Huxley 267). It signifies they still have intentions to preserve human qualities in order not to become a machine.
In conclusion, Brave New World depicts a utopian society that is so close to the idea that, in general, it does not even look crazy but rather attractive for living. However, it highlights the differences between men and women by humiliating the latter’s reproductive rights. In addition, the clash of Alphas and Betas is drastic – some strive for recognition and living in a fake world, while others try to preserve their human nature.
Work Cited
Huxley, Aldous. Brave New World. Vintage, 2004.