Science FictionFirst Published 1932
Brave New World
A Vision of Engineered Happiness
Authored by Aldous Huxley
Duration255 min
Length311 pages
Rating4.85
Archival Synopsis
In a future where humans are manufactured and conditioned for social stability, Bernard Marx dares to question his engineered happiness. Huxley's prophetic vision of technocracy and soma-induced contentment feels terrifyingly prescient.
Editorial Perspective
“Where Orwell feared external censorship, Huxley feared we would come to love our own oppression. Brave New World is the more troubling prophecy precisely because it is so comfortable.”
Thematic Motifs
Engineered Happiness vs. FreedomThe Cost of StabilityIdentity & ConditioningTechnology as Control
Iconic Passages
“Words can be like X-rays if you use them properly — they'll go through anything.”
“You can't consume much if you sit still and read books.”
“Ending is better than mending.”
Volume Structure