Brave New World by Aldous Huxley
“...most men and women will grow up to love their servitude and will never dream of revolution.”
Genre: science fiction, dystopian, philosophical
Brave New World takes place in a dystopian "World State" in which every aspect of individual choice is controlled by a benevolent dictatorship with the goal of achieving individual stability, and ultimately, societal stability. Although its inhabitants enjoy privileges such as perfect health, ample material goods, and protection from negative emotions, a holiday to the outside world leads a few misfits to question their conformity and enter into that "brave new world."
Although written in 1931, Huxley's prediction of the future world state is poignant in many areas, for example: society's emphasis on materialism, entertainment, and the need to be "happy" at whatever cost. Perhaps the most striking, albeit silly, aspect of Huxley's alternate universe is that the inhabitants of the "World State" worship Henry Ford as a god, often uttering phrases like "Our Ford" as a twist on "Our Lord."
I chose this book due to its interesting critique on modern society and because Huxley's "World State" is a genuinely fascinating alternate reality to explore. This book is a perfect read for anyone interested in science fiction, dystopian universes, or anyone who likes to question societal norms and trends.
