Harrison Bergeron is set in 2081, a period in which there is total equality. People are brought to the same level even on the intellectual basis. This is the desire of almost every human being right now; to have reduced competition, to be able to live as one big family with the same capabilities and financial dispositions. But, as Vonnegut points out in this book, total equality is not an ideal worth striving for. It is a mistaken goal that is dangerous in both its execution and desired outcome. For instance, to achieve physical and mental equality among all Americans, the government in this story tortures its citizens into intellectual and physical submission. The beautiful must wear masks that are identical to others, or disfigure themselves, the intelligent must listen to ear-splitting noises that impede their ability to think, and the graceful and strong must wear weights around their necks at all times to be as weak as everybody else.
The insistence on total equality seeps into every citizen, who then begin to dumb themselves down or hide their unique attributes. Some citizens behave this way because they have internalized the government's goals, while others do so out of fear of severe punishment. The outcome of this extreme quest for equality is disastrous. America becomes a land of cowed, stupid, slow, and unproductive people. The government must murder the extremely gifted and brave with no fear of reprisal. While equality, in this case, may be more or less achieved, it comes at the expense of freedom and individual achievement. In this case, as one can observe, equality is merely an act of oppression and submission. For equality to be effective in any society, it is crucial that the government and other relevant bodies capitalize on individual gifts and diversity to promote maximum productivity, the outcome of which should then be shared equally among all citizens. Citizens should be encouraged to explore their potential, but provide opportunities and support other people instead of personal gains. This is a better form of equality rather than suppressing productivity. Because while in the latter case equality may still be achieved, it will be at the economic, social and political expense of the society; spheres without which there is no development.
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