Has anyone noticed the striking similarities between the party in 1984 and Mao's china? Some people have commented on this, but I think the subject deserves its own thread.
The remarkable aspect of this is that 1984 was written first!
Here are some similarities, taken from my sketchy memories of the sycophantic biography 'Mao the peoples emperor' and more recent Wild Swans by Jung Chang:
People may not speak out about the party, or will be denounced.
Outer party members are treated more harshly/controlled than the peasant class.
Party members are not permitted feelings for each other.
Children are brought up as spies and encouraged to tell tales on their parents.
There are many more, including the big posters of the man himself in both cases