I am presently rereading that book, it had been since High School since I read it last. I took it upon myself to refamiliarize myself with it because I am intrigued with the similarities between Orwell's invention "Newspeak" and what I call "Political Correct Speak".
Both are a method of thought control. Orwell's is enforced by law. PCS is enforced by the niceties of social pressure. i.e. "You don't say that in polite society....!"
On the other hand, we are now being introduced to the concept of "Hate Speech", which, if taken to the logical conclusion via the present direction of contemporary thought on the matter, will become a "crime". THAT is a little scarey, if you ask me.
The fact that the mere concept of "banning" what is termed "hate speech" (and who decides what speech qualifies?) flies in the face and spirit of the 1st Amendment to the Constitution, doesn't seem to deter the proponents of the "hate speech" idea.
Perhaps Orwell had a bit of soothsayer in him! :wink:
Halfback
P.S. Incidently, certain members of our more liberal political party have sometimes referred to Conservative Talk Radio as "Hate Speech".
Apparently, then, it can be said that "Hate Speech" is in the ear of the beholder.
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