The Dangers of Equality: a Critical Analysis of Harrison Bergeron

Kurt Vonnegut's short story "Harrison Bergeron" paints a dystopian society in which absolute equality is valued above all else. The government enforces this equality through various methods, including physical restraints and intellectual hindrances. Despite the seemingly harmonious nature of this society, Vonnegut suggests that the pursuit of absolute equality can lead to the suppression of individuality, the loss of creativity, and the degradation of humanity.

The story is set in a world where everyone is equalized through various handicaps. Any attributes that could potentially make a person superior to others are suppressed, including intelligence, attractiveness, strength, and talent. The government enforces this equality through the use of handicaps such as ear implants that broadcast loud noises to interrupt intelligent thoughts and weighted handicaps that limit physical abilities. The story follows the Bergeron family, including George, Hazel, and their son Harrison, who is exceptional in every way but has been imprisoned for his gifts.

The story's most disturbing aspect is the suppression of individuality. The handicaps lead to a society of homogenous individuals with no unique characteristics or traits. The government enforces this by punishing those who dare to defy the norm. For example, Harrison's rebellion is met with swift and brutal consequences, and his parents are unable to comprehend the significance of his actions due to their own handicaps. This lack of individuality leads to a society that is bland, boring, and devoid of creativity.

Furthermore, the suppression of individuality leads to a loss of creativity. In the story, television is used as a method of entertainment, with the government controlling the content and eliminating any references to art, literature, or music. This lack of creativity leads to a society of mindless individuals with no appreciation for the arts or culture. The government has effectively eliminated any substantial form of expression, which is a key component of what makes us human. Without creativity, society becomes stagnant and lacks progress and innovation.

Lastly, "Harrison Bergeron" portrays the dystopian outcome of the pursuit of absolute equality. The story suggests that the government's attempt to create a perfectly equal society ultimately leads to the degradation of humanity. The handicaps and the suppression of individuality lead to a society that is devoid of empathy, compassion, and understanding. The story's ending is particularly tragic as Harrison's death is broadcasted on live television, with his parents barely reacting due to their handicaps.

In conclusion, "Harrison Bergeron" serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of pursuing absolute equality. Through the use of physical and intellectual handicaps, Vonnegut shows the negative effects that such policies can have on individuality, creativity, and humanity. While equality is an admirable goal, the pursuit of absolute equality can lead to the suppression of what makes us human. It is essential to consider the costs of enacting policies that prioritize equality above all else.