1984: Newspeak, Doublethink, and Thought Control
Newspeak is a language designed to restrict thought and expression by eliminating words associated with rebellious ideas.
In George Orwell’s 1984, the Party’s control over language, particularly through Newspeak, reflects the concept of linguistic determinism, proposed by Benjamin Lee Whorf. Whorf’s theory of linguistic relativity suggests that language structure and vocabulary shape how people think and perceive the world. This aligns with how the Party in 1984 uses language to restrict citizens’ cognitive and intellectual freedom.
Doublethink is the act of simultaneously accepting two contradictory beliefs as true. Winston Smith, the protagonist, describes it as “To know and not to know… Even to understand the word—doublethink—involved the use of doublethink.” Examples of doublethink in 1984 include the slogans: War is Peace, Freedom is Slavery, Ignorance is Strength, and 2 + 2 = 5.
1984 explores the roles of thought and language in rebellion and control. Newspeak aims to make rebellion impossible by eliminating words related to it. Doublethink, the acceptance of contradictory ideas, explains people’s willingness to accept control over their memories and past.
Doublethink is crucial to the Party’s control. It allows them to alter history and present distorted accounts as truth. The brainwashed populace accepts the Party’s ever-changing version of history without recognizing contradictions.
Emmanuel Goldstein’s manifesto suggests doublethink is strongest among Inner Party members, who convince themselves they act for the mythical Big Brother. Doublethink also plays a role in Winston’s conversion, enabling him to accept his torturers’ words despite his conflicting memories.
The Impact of Language on Thought and Perception
Learning a language is fascinating because it explores how language shapes cognitive processes and world perception. Newspeak creates specific words to express only what the government allows. Linguistic relativism describes how language shapes cognition and thoughts. The relationship between Newspeak and linguistic relativism demonstrates how language shapes our understanding of reality and communication.
Julia’s Character in Relation to Winston
Differences and Similarities
Winston, thirty-nine, grew up mostly before the Party’s rise to power around 1960. Julia, twenty-six, is a child of the Party era. While both hate the Party, Julia is less affected by its tactics. She understands the Party’s use of sexual repression and has a better grasp of its methods. However, unlike Winston, she’s unfazed by the Party’s control of history, having no memory of a different time.
Julia’s Age and Attitude
Julia rebels against the Party through small acts like enjoying sex. However, growing up under the Party has made her apathetic to truth versus falsehood. She lacks Winston’s desire for a complete rejection of Party doctrine, falling asleep while he reads Goldstein’s book, highlighting her self-centered, pleasure-seeking approach to life.