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The Dangers Of Psychological Control In 1984 By George Orwell

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Governmental Dominance Over Thought The manipulation of the mind is often seen as an invasion of privacy, going against one’s natural rights as a human being. From another mindset, psychological control can be seen as the greatest weapon known to man today, allowing complete domination over a nation or mass of people. Despite laws and regulations meant to prevent an extreme abuse of power, the invasion of one’s mind is a common strategy used by governments throughout history and literature to create a sense of supremacy in their respective societies. In the novel 1984 by George Orwell, the Party bases their leadership around controlling the minds of the people and altering their thoughts. Like the leaders in 1984, Adolf Hitler used similar tactics to gain followers, persuading the people to believe every word he spoke in Nazi Germany. Domination over what the public hears and sees were the main factors in his rise to power. In both 1984 and Nazi Germany, psychological manipulation is a powerful force used to aid in the government's control over the people, using propaganda, pressure, and fear to alter the thoughts of individuals. The news and information distributed to the public in both Oceania in 1984 and Nazi Germany is censored and modified to fit the targeted message the government wishes to send. Winston’s job in the Ministry of Truth involves changing newspapers, documents, and any informative resources to match what the Party wants the people to believe.

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