Conformity

Definition

Conformity refers to the act of aligning one's beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors to match those of a group or societal norms. This tendency often arises from a desire for acceptance, approval, or avoidance of conflict, leading individuals to suppress their individuality in favor of fitting in with others. In the context of a controlled society, like that in 'Brave New World', conformity is enforced to maintain stability and suppress dissent, illustrating the potential dangers of prioritizing societal cohesion over personal freedom.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In 'Brave New World', citizens are conditioned from birth to conform to societal expectations, eliminating personal choice and individual thought.
2. Conformity is maintained through various methods such as hypnopaedia (sleep-teaching) and the use of soma, a drug that suppresses negative emotions and promotes contentment.
3. The characters who resist conformity, like John the Savage, often face severe repercussions, highlighting the struggle between individuality and societal pressures.
4. The World State prioritizes stability and uniformity over personal freedom, showcasing the extreme consequences of enforced conformity.
5. Huxley presents conformity as a tool for control, suggesting that when societal harmony is achieved at the expense of individual identity, true happiness becomes unattainable.

Review Questions

• How does Aldous Huxley illustrate the concept of conformity in 'Brave New World' through its characters and societal structure?
  • Huxley illustrates conformity through characters like Lenina Crowne and Bernard Marx, who represent different responses to societal expectations. Lenina embodies complete acceptance of her conditioned role, while Bernard struggles with feelings of isolation due to his desire for individuality. The World State's rigid structure, including hypnopaedia and the use of soma, reinforces conformity by discouraging dissent and promoting uniformity among citizens.
• Discuss the implications of conformity on personal identity as depicted in 'Brave New World'. How does this reflect larger themes in the novel?
  • Conformity in 'Brave New World' leads to the erasure of personal identity, as individuals are conditioned to prioritize group identity over self-expression. This reflects larger themes such as the loss of individuality, freedom, and authenticity in a highly controlled society. Characters who deviate from conformist norms face alienation or punishment, emphasizing how deeply entrenched societal expectations can stifle personal growth and diversity.
• Evaluate how Huxley's portrayal of conformity raises questions about the balance between societal stability and individual freedom. What lessons can contemporary society learn from this?
  • Huxley's portrayal of conformity serves as a cautionary tale about sacrificing individual freedom for societal stability. The extreme measures taken by the World State to enforce conformity highlight the dangers of an overly controlled society where personal freedoms are suppressed. Contemporary society can learn to value individualism while recognizing that some level of social cohesion is necessary. The challenge lies in finding a balance where diversity is embraced rather than stifled, allowing for both community and personal expression.

Related terms

social conditioning: The process through which individuals learn and internalize the norms and values of their society or group.

dystopia:

An imagined society characterized by oppressive societal control and the illusion of a perfect society, often resulting in human misery.

individualism: A social theory that emphasizes the moral worth of the individual and the importance of personal independence and self-reliance.