When Jonas is first discovering colors, he states that the society should be able to make their own decisions. He says that it would be nice to choose a red tunic or a blue one instead of the same thing every day. In "The Giver," Jonas's society had choices, but each choice was very regulated or limited. For example, the choice to speak and the choice to do certain things during free times or holidays. As far as choices that were even partially liberated, this is about all I can think about. Other common choices, such as our own choices today, were regulated. For example, what to eat, what to wear, time management, the bike you rode, what you did, taking the pill for the stirrings, and much more. The list could go on and on. Such a society lacked color for a good reason. Life is full of color, even though life was existent in this society, it was by far not colorful.
             The society can be looked upon as a oxymoron. It seems as though the committees whole reason for keeping the society the way it is, is because it was there "perfect society." It lacked pain and emotion, it lacked color and vibrance, it also lacked choices. The committee believed that the choice making should be left up to them and with rare help from the receiver. With this presupposition, sheltering and keeping the people from harm, they lack the vibrance of life. The argument that all of life can't be enjoyed in this society can't be given, because no one can experience all life has to offer. Yet, individualism is lacking in the society causing them the threat that life cannot be lived to its fullest. This society can never be a "perfect society," only Heaven can do this. Heaven is full of emotion, including joy, peace, and love. It seems as though Jonas's society lacks all three. On the earth reality consists of these, but because of sin we must endure pain and hardships as well. Is it worth it? I...