Replies?

[Callisto]

I agree that life in the rich, industrialized countries is not as bleak as described in 1984. Even life in some non-democratic countries can be pleasant - atleast with regards to creature comforts or being well-fed.<br><br>But what of the third world ?<br>What of the millions, if not billions of people who must struggle just to survive ?<br><br>I view today's world as one based upon economic exploitation. Our leaders would have us believe they are doing the best they can to help the developing world. Do you believe them ?<br><br>Ignorance is strength :(

[Skeptic]

Is our life in America really so terrible as the life depicted in 1984? Can we consciously say that because we have been at 'war' since 911, which was so recent, that we have a neverending war?<br> I feel sadness from the story told by the book. I can take it as a warning, and try to be on the lookout for things that bring this about. But to me, when everyone immediately cries out that this is what our society is today... I cannot help feeling like I'm hearing a rehearsed and brainwashed speech. What is so appealing about conspiracy theories? How come everyone I know is suddenly hopping on that bandwagon? Perhaps I'm simply out of the loop. I spend extensive time on the computer, but I watch no television, carry no cellphone or pager, and hardly listen to the radio.<br> If truly this society is coming about and this book is a warning, what is it we're supposed to do to stop it? Outline a plan for me for averting the disaster instead of simply saying it is coming, and I will be much more inclined to listen. I would love any and all intellectual replies.