Ariel Rose

Written by Aldous Huxley, Brave New World is a disturbing dystopian fiction novel. The World State expands on ideas farfetched when the novel was written in 1931. Although somewhat realistic, things such as designer babies, drug abuse, and hypersexuality are aspects of our current society. But, I struggle with the constant themes of misogyny and racism. No women are in the Alpha status (the highest in society). For a novel that is currently discussed in schools, without proper explanation, Huxley is reinforcing the idea that women don't deserve and can't handle positions of power. In addition, the blatant racism in this novel in regards to indigenous peoples is appalling. The dehumanization of John by using the nickname "Savage" is humiliating and is justified through the description of the reservation. Huxley is almost saying that the indigenous were living in such a terrible condition BECAUSE they are indigenous. They don't deserve the lavish lifestyle of the World State. Social injustices aside, Brave New World is very successful at exemplifying themes that transcend decades and generations.