~ Brave New World, page 22
Everyone has heard of the classic "Pavlov's Dogs" experiment - a scientist trained his dogs to salivate at the sound of a bell by feeding the animals each time it rang. There has even been a reproduction of this scientific discovery in a popular TV show. (Sorry about the quality)
In the novel, this type of conditioning is taken to new, extreme, twisted levels. In the "Neo-Pavlovian Conditioning Room," babies are taught to hate things such as books and flowers by not only shrieking bells and sirens, but also by electrocution. I, for one, find this quite disturbing unlike the observing students, one who found this practice admirable. Ironically, the only unpleasant thing found in this chapter to the people living in this world is the thought of a family - not growing up in a public, controlled environment. We often fear and reject the unfamiliar, but I am pretty sure I would still be reluctant of shocking those babies if I lived in that era. What will they do next, serve them on a platter?This chapter also stimulates thought regarding something called Hypnopaedia, or repetition of phrases that penetrate the subconscious. This technique is used to teach children morals (ha) and to love, love, love their predetermined conditions. If all the children are taught to think that this new world is perfect and are conditioned to love it, then how could anyone present another perspective? The people living in this world aren't even allowed to think independently. I predict that the protagonist will be someone who rebels against the structure in this society - perhaps Henry Foster (he could have an experience that breaks his spirit and confidence in the system and somehow could prove that it is wrong)? Or maybe another character will be introduced and become the hero. Someone needs to reveal society's "stability" for what it truly is.
Ha! Love the Office clip!
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