Themes: Industrialization
Industrialization was a large factor of society when Huxley wrote Brave New World, which is reflected in the way he wrote it into the novel. Though the World State’s people have renounced all religion, they do still revere one figure with a religious-like fervor: Henry Ford. This is showcased in everyday expressions (“Ford!” and “Fordy!”), their use of A.F. (Anno Ford) to denote years, and their reference to Mustapha Mond, who upholds Henry Ford’s ideals as “his Fordship.”
Indeed, the tenants of industrialization are core to the functioning of the World State and the structure of its society. Humans are created in an assembly line like cars, conditioned with biological and psychological attributes that predict their fates, similar to the different auto parts that distinguish luxury cars from jalopies. Efficient mass production gives people the time to be active consumers. It also allows for new things to be made at such a high rate that people can discard “old” items like clothing after just a few uses.
Expert Q&A
In Brave New World, what is the Bokanovsky Process?
In Brave New World, the Bokanovsky Process involves splitting a single embryo into multiple identical embryos to create uniform human beings. This method aims to ensure social stability by having large groups of identical workers performing identical tasks. It eliminates traditional family structures, allowing the state to control individuals' lives and beliefs, thus maintaining order and suppressing true emotions.
What is "Centrifugal Bumble Puppy" in Brave New World and why is a complicated apparatus required for games?
"Centrifugal Bumble Puppy" in "Brave New World" is a complex game involving a steel tower, revolving disks, and a ball, created to keep children occupied. The game's complexity and the use of expensive apparatuses are intentionally designed by the World State government to increase economic consumption. The government regulates games to ensure they contribute to the economy, hence the preference for games requiring expensive equipment.
What are the six steps of the Bokanovsky Process in Brave New World?
The six steps of the Bokanovsky Process in Brave New World involve: x-raying extracted eggs for eight minutes, incubating those that divide, chilling them after two days to induce further budding, checking and chilling again, dousing the buds with alcohol to prompt more division, and finally, allowing the buds to develop. This process produces up to 96 identical embryos and is used for lower caste individuals.
What is John the Savage's reaction to the Bokanovsky groups at work?
John the Savage is profoundly disturbed by the sight of the Bokanovsky groups at work, ultimately causing him to vomit. Witnessing the dehumanizing and repetitive labor of the Delta workers, John becomes physically and emotionally ill. He perceives this as a loss of human freedom and individuality, which conflicts with his ideals. This reaction highlights his growing disillusionment with the World State and its inhumane social structure.
How does modern technology compare to that in A Brave New World?
Technology plays a defining role in the actions, values, and relationships in modern times, just as it does in Brave New World. Consider how soma is used in the book as a form of social control to keep people complacent and indifferent. This is similar to the way people today are dependent on smartphones and how planned obsolescence creates a cycle of consumer dependence to stimulate the economy.
Get Ahead with eNotes
Start your 48-hour free trial to access everything you need to rise to the top of the class. Enjoy expert answers and study guides ad-free and take your learning to the next level.
Already a member? Log in here.
