Individualism and Authoritarian Government in Anthem
Anthem, by Ayn Rand, limits individualism while restricting society’s independence. An important aspect in Anthem’s uniform society is its unconscious conformity to its authoritarian government. The novel stimulates the reader to think of how individuality is repressed while demonstrating how obedience is the foundation to society. It is this unfound obedience to authority that provides productivity and stability to its citizens; however, the question is raised as to how obedient society can be without losing its individuality. For a society without individuality becomes that of mindless robots, unthinkingly carrying out orders for their leader. The deprivation of individuality within this society affects the characters' relationships within the novel by creating more 'isolated' individuals.
Throughout the novel, the focus is on equality and individual roles within society. The characters are taught that everyone is equal, no man better than the other. Societal roles play a part in how one is made to serve thy brother, “And if you are not needed by your brother men, there is no reason for you to burden the earth with your bodies. I am neither foe nor friend to my brothers, but such as each of them shall deserve of me.” This being said, Equality 7-2521, the novel’s protagonist, refers to himself as “we”, unaware of the concept of “I”. However, as the novel progresses, the reader can see how Equality begins to grasp the idea of the word “I”, through the development of his character and his changing outlook upon society’s blind obedience.
At the close of the novel, the final chapters are dedicated to understanding the importance of individuality. At this time, Equality has come to the realization of how significant the word “I” is as he has come to understand what it truly means. I signify much more than just another pronoun; it is the heart of individuality. Ego, another word Equality has come to find intriguing, is the word he had been looking for to somewhat break away/ make himself different from the rest of society. Equality finds empowerment within his own ego, “My happiness needs no higher aim to vindicate it. My happiness is not the means to any end. It is the end. It is its own goal. It is its own purpose.” Ego is the true strength of the individual, causing him to finally break out of the square that society has created.
Anthem’s reflection of a dystopian society is based upon the notion that all men are equal and obedient. Society simplifies power and authority whilst ignoring its true context as they feel the need to be obedient towards authority without any real representation. There is a philosophy that power has the ability to blind and build obedience. However, individuality is the foundation upon which society is set. There is a line that is more permeable than we think that allows there to be a balance between obedience to authority and personal individuality.
Individualism is a basic part of the foundation of society. It provides stability and productivity to its citizens. Individuality within a society is essential. A society without individuality becomes that of mindless robots, unthinkingly carrying out orders for their ruler. Anthem demonstrates how individuality is often destabilized by blind obedience to authoritative figures. The novel teaches the importance of self-expression and the freedom that comes along with being your own person and withholding the power to choose the path that you will take in life. The deprivation of individuality within this society affects the character's relationships within the novel by creating a more 'isolated' individuals.
