Thesis: Beware of the conditioners, because their power and “progress über alles” dogma will intensify exponentially as time presses forward, and their ranks condense. Their goal is simple: ideology is paramount, and thus, a monopoly on thought is a justified endeavor.
Short Paragraph Description: This thesis explores overarching concepts that are present in each of the assigned books. The main two themes covered are as follows: the danger that arises when society is viewed through the same lens as technology, and the means by which totalitarian actors grab and maintain power. In The Abolition of Man, C.S. Lewis addresses both themes from the philosophical standpoint, offering an in-depth analysis of the moral subjectivity that guides the aforementioned conditioners. N.I.C.E.’s nefarious activities in That Hideous Strength mirror precisely what Lewis addressed, instead told through a fictional narrative. Legutko and Zuboff align from opposite ends of the political spectrum to expose real-life examples pertinent to the emergence of a shrinking class of conditioners — Communists & Liberal-Democrats, and Google, respectively.
Bullet-Point Outline:
-My introduction will begin anecdotally (perhaps something historical and thought-provoking), immediately thereafter tying in the definition of a “Conditioner”
-The first paragraph or two will cover the conceptual similarities between both of Lewis’ works: The Abolition of Man and That Hideous Strength.
-Tie in real life examples presented by Legutko. Delve more into the mindset which defined Communist/Marxist doctrine, and how this continues to pervade contemporary society within Liberal-Democracies. Note: perhaps include something about the decline of higher education — could be tied in with Lewis’ criticism of The Green Book.
-Include Zuboff in the equation. Introduce her main criticisms about Google’s technocratic capabilities, and what “intrumentarianism” entails.
-Begin addressing the similarities in relation to thesis. What are the methods by which monolithic thought is perpetuated? How are/were dissenters treated within organizations/parties such as N.I.C.E., the former Soviet Union, or even Google? INCLUDE FIRST SCENE FROM THAT HIDEOUS STRENGTH: (The murder of Mr. Hingest, scene from page 79).
-Explore what Lewis warned about in a broad manner, and then include TRUE examples (from Legutko or other historical sources) about how dissenters/those who questioned authority were treated.
-Why do they (totalitarian-minded folks) act this way? Explore why these folks feel justified in their actions. Continue by criticizing moral subjectivity.
-Methods by which power is gained and maintained: Refer back to blog — ambush AND charge method. Refer first to Mark’s publications, and the classes they were directed at. Why was this strategic?
-Continue with section about MAINTENANCE of power, and N.I.C.E.’s omnipresent police force. Include SCENE FROM PAGE 212, demonstrating the Schutzstaffel-esque manner in how N.I.C.E. police operated
-What kind of danger (realistically) awaits us?
-Was Lewis prophetic, or just a man of his time?
-Conclude by re-stating thesis, and end with another profound anecdote (and perhaps a warning of some sort?)
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