Conformist Society
Society divides people into two categories; those who conform to what is expected, and those who do not. Webster's dictionary defines 'conformity' as, "similarity in form or character; correspondence; agreement; action or behaviour in correspondence with current customs, rules or styles." When a person fails to measure up to certain expectations, those in power inflict consequences. Under these circumstances, it is human nature to feel the need to rebel, either externally or internally. These statements are apparent in both 1984 and One Flew Over The Cuckoo's Nest. Both main characters fall into the non-conformist category, but In 1984, the main character Winston Smith, lives in a society of rules and regulation, which is written in stone. The laws are strict and the punishment is swift, should they be disobeyed. Expectations form any large or small community and rules define the way it should behave. The "Party" is the one and only figure of power in the book. It maintains control over the people by removing a few basic human instincts. The first instinct is hate. All people in the society are expected to be
Winston demonstrates that one should not underestimate higher powers, We are the priests of power. The individual only has power so long as he ceases to be an individual. Winston Smith, however, feels the need to revolt against such strict rules in order to feel human again. Chief, even though the revolution was not his own, is swept up with McMurphy and is punished as severely, "I was suggesting - that we consider an operation. It may take the form of treason, hate, or simply sexual attraction. He exhibits a natural feeling of freedom from care and rules. Already our control over matter is absolute"(277). Winston falls in love and has sex with a fellow member of the Party. It seemed to him that it was only now, when he had begun to be able to formulate his thoughts, that he had taken the decisive step. There are some within this society that will rebel to this form of treatment. Eventually, those who stew inwardly need someone strong, who is willing to change things to bring them out of their shell. McMurphy and Chief succeed for awhile in bringing some joy to the ward, but as in 1984, there are serious consequences. Winston portrays the type of human that will eventually be driven to extremes if oppressed.
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