Technology and Modernization
Theme
Theme
In the novel 1984, technology plays a pivotal role in the society of Oceania. If you are in any industrialized area, you are being watched. Privacy no longer exists. That is why i believe that Orwell, as it relates to Technology and Modernization, uses the theme that technology use should be limited for the right of privacy to be protected.
"Winston turned a switch and the voice sank somewhat, though the words were still distinguishable. The instrument (the telescreen, it was called) could be dimmed, but there was no way of shutting it off completely." (1.1.3) The telescreen, basically a two-way television in a sense, is the main way Big Brother can watch its people. Telescreens are a part of every industrialized area, besides the houses and area where the Proles reside. The use of this technology is exactly what i believe Orwell warns us against. This technology, a omnipotent presence anywhere you go, allows for no privacy whatsoever. Allowing no privacy eventually leads to restrictions on thoughts and ideas, which is exactly what the party wants.