Orwell, 1984. Introduction. What Socialism is and What is at Stake in 1984

Orwell's 1984 is one of the great 20th Century novels. Orwell is a socialist of sorts, but we must be definite about what we mean by socialism. There is a small-ball socialism connected with particular policies that Orwell seems to endorse. But the big-league socialism is the view that human nature is an empty vessel into which human society pours meaning. This kind of socialism is what Orwell criticizes. It is the view that a new man can arise through the proper arrangement of society. The totalitarian temptation lurks within this kind of socialism--and that socialism is connected to and arises from a genuinely managerial state.

[@davidredding7694]

Thanks so much Scott. Your commentary is very helpful and understanding these books. “Demons” by Fyedor brought me her.

[@heavenlyonyxcloudserpent]

What a coincidence. I finished the Possessed about 2 months ago and found your videos when I looked up reviews on youtube. Now I finished 1984 2 days ago and here you are. Funny world. Good video Scott, keep it up!

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