Justify the Novel Brave New World as a Science Fiction.

Answer

Justify the novel Brave New World as a science fiction.

Aldous Huxley’s (1894–1963) “Brave New World” (1932) is often celebrated as a pioneering work of science fiction. This genre is known for its imaginative exploration of future societies. This society is shaped by scientific and technological advancements. In this groundbreaking novel, Huxley vividly portrays a dystopian world where science and technology dominate every aspect of human life. 

Exploration of Genetic Engineering: “Brave New World” delves into the realm of genetic engineering. It envisions a future where humans are mass-produced and conditioned for specific roles in society. The novel introduces us to the concept of the Hatchery and Conditioning Centre. Here, embryos are manipulated to produce individuals tailored to fit societal needs. As the Director proudly proclaims, 

Ninety-six identical twins working ninety-six identical machines!

This manipulation of human biology to create a homogenized population reflects the speculative nature of science fiction. It invites readers to consider the ethical importance of such practices.

Speculative Technology: Huxley’s novel features a range of speculative technologies that define the futuristic world of “Brave New World.” Soma is a mood-altering drug. It is used to control the lower classes, such as Deltas and Gammas in the World State. To advanced reproductive technologies like the Bokanovsky Process, the novel presents a society where science has reshaped human existence. The universal use of technology to regulate behaviour and maintain social order mirrors the themes commonly found in science fiction literature. Here, advancements in science and technology have far-reaching consequences for humanity.

Use of Soma: Soma is a kind of drug that is distributed without any price to all the citizens of the World State. Soma symbolizes pleasure, the goal for everyone in the World State society. The lower classes of the world state, e.g., the epsilons, deltas, and gammas, take regular doses of soma every day. The upper classes can mainly choose on their own how much and how often they need to take soma to flee to the world they would like to be in. Huxley relates,

..there is always soma, delicious soma, half a gramme for a half-holiday.

Dystopian Setting: To understand Dystopia, you need to know about Utopia. Dystopia is totally the opposite of Utopia. According to Thomas More, Utopia is an imagined place or state of things in which everything is perfect. But Dystopia is an imagined state or society with great suffering or injustice. The dystopian world of “Brave New World” displays the speculative nature of science fiction. Huxley paints a gloomy picture of a society where happiness is manufactured. The citizens are categorized into castes and conditioned to accept their predetermined roles. It highlights the potential consequences of unrestrained scientific progress. As John the savage observes, 

But I don’t want comfort. I want God, I want poetry, I want real danger, I want freedom, I want goodness. I want sin. 

This thirst for authenticity amidst a world of artificiality highlights the novel’s exploration of dystopian themes central to science fiction.

Exploration of Human Nature: “Brave New World” delves into the complexities of human nature in the face of technological advancement. Through characters like Bernard Marx and John the Savage, the novel explores the tension between individual desires and societal conformity. Huxley’s portrayal of human emotions and relationships within the context of a highly regimented society invites readers to contemplate the essence of humanity itself. As Mustapha Mond reflects, 

Happiness is never grand.

It suggests that happiness lacks genuine emotion within a technologically driven society.

In conclusion, “Brave New World” firmly establishes itself as a work of science fiction through its content. By envisioning a future where science reigns supreme, Huxley’s novel warns about the dangers of sacrificing humanity.