brave new world research paper

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• Published: 20 November 2013

In retrospect: Brave New World

• Philip Ball 1  

Nature volume  503 ,  pages 338–339 ( 2013 ) Cite this article

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Philip Ball reconsiders the mix of dystopian science fiction and satire 50 years after Aldous Huxley's death.

Brave New World

• Aldous Huxley

When Brave New World was published in 1932, science and technology were widely seen as holding utopian promise. The first antibacterials were being developed, the Haber–Bosch process had recently begun to supply artificial fertilizers, and people were starting to fly between continents and converse across vast distances. Aldous Huxley's bleakly satirical vision of a technocratic, totalitarian state in which the masses are engineered into stupefied contentment by eugenics, drugs, mindless hedonism and consumerism seemed to scorn that rosy view.

Although it was lauded by some, including the logician and anti-war activist Bertrand Russell, the science boosters felt that Huxley had let the side down. Nature 's reviewer at the time of publication sniffed that “biology is itself too surprising to be really amusing material for fiction”. That reviewer was Charlotte Haldane, whose then husband, the geneticist J. B. S. Haldane, was not averse to predicting the future himself — but in a more optimistic vein.

Gradually, as the star of science waned in the nuclear shadow of Hiroshima and the cold war, Brave New World came to be seen as prophetic. But although its status as a classic of twentieth-century literature is rightly secure, what it says about technological development is too often misconstrued.

FEARS FOR THE FUTURE

Huxley's brave new world leaned heavily on the technologies that Haldane had forecast in his essay Daedalus, or Science and the Future (1924), particularly the idea of ectogenesis — the gestation of embryos and fetuses in artificial containers. For Haldane, this was a eugenic technique that could improve the human race — as his friend and Aldous's brother, the evolutionary biologist Julian Huxley, also believed. Aldous here, as elsewhere, sided with Russell, who had warned, “I am compelled to fear that science will be used to promote the power of dominant groups, rather than to make men happy.” In a 1932 article, biochemist and Sinophile Joseph Needham described Brave New World as a note-perfect realization of Russell's concerns.

But Huxley's dystopia upset some champions of scientific progress much more than it did Charlotte Haldane. H. G. Wells, whose 1923 novel Men Like Gods served up a characteristically glorious scientific utopia, felt personally offended, allegedly saying “a writer of the standing of Aldous Huxley has no right to betray the future as he did in that book”. (Huxley admitted that irritation with Wells's book was partly what provoked him to write Brave New World in the first place.)

So Brave New World did not appear out of nowhere, but was a contribution to a vigorous interwar debate about the influence of science on society, not least the roles of reproductive technologies. That debate was exemplified by the To-day and To-morrow essay series — of which Daedalus was the first — published in Britain by Kegan Paul between 1923 and 1931. Through it, scientists, philosophers, politicians, artists and feminists engaged deeply in a conversation that has never since been matched.

Within that context, Brave New World can be read as a turning of the tide in terms of perceptions of what science would bring: from optimism to foreboding. With the benefit of perspective, what should we make of it now?

The story is set in AD 2540 (or 632 'After Ford', the god of mass production). A World State manufactures its citizens by growing fetuses in bottles according to “Bokanovsky's Process”: cloning many embryos from a single fertilized egg and treating them with chemical agents during development to produce a five-tier caste system of intelligence. Sex is recreational, love is obsolete and the idea of family is obscene.

Outside this society live small communities of 'savages' who maintain the old ways of reproduction and religion. One of them, a young man called John, has become eloquent (rather too much so, Huxley admitted) by reading Shakespeare — hence the quote from The Tempest that gives the book its ironic title. John echoes Miranda's naive phrase as he initially thrills to the prospect of visiting civilization, and then is horrified by the shallow, hedonistic passivity of its citizens. Lacking art, religion and any sort of genuine passion or curiosity, this stagnant society has, John says, paid “a fairly high price” for its empty happiness. He is eventually driven to despair and suicide.

The book begins with its most famous set-piece: the human 'hatchery'. Decked out in the “glass and nickel and bleakly shining porcelain of a laboratory”, it houses incubators that contain “racks upon racks of numbered test-tubes”. Thus, Brave New World reimagines the old myth of making artificial people (anthropoeia) in a form that was appropriate for the early twentieth century: no longer a lone and secretive quasi-alchemical pursuit, but an industrial-scale operation. This is a perceptive revision of Mary Shelley's Frankenstein (1818), although it was anticipated in Karel Čapek's 1921 play R.U.R ., which described the manufacture of flesh-and-blood 'robots'.

In literary terms, Huxley's satire is rich, but his story and characters are thin. This is a common feature of science fiction from Jules Verne to J. G. Ballard, and has led some critics to insist that the genre can never produce 'true literature'. That is to utterly miss its point. As Robert Philmus argued in Into the Unknown (1970), science fiction from Jonathan Swift's 1726 work Gulliver's Travels onwards “draws upon the metaphors inherent in current ideas and transforms them into myth”. Myth demands sketchy characters — it has concerns beyond the modernist focus on the individual psyche. Often those concerns are satirical: by materializing ideas, their limitations are revealed. As with Swift, so with Huxley.

In other words, Brave New World , like most classics of science fiction, is less a work of invention than one of analysis — it is about the present (in this case, the period between the wars), not the future. Huxley's target was contemporary fears of totalitarian communism and fascism, wariness about eugenics and scientific triumphalism, and anxieties about consumerism (“Our Ford” is the profanity of choice) and mass docility. He hits all these targets with humour that has true bite. The real issue is broader than the details — as Huxley put it, “not the advancement of science as such [but] the advancement of science as it affects human individuals”.

MEANING MISREAD

The book's lasting power is as a tale about ways in which we can lose our humanity.

What irks me is how persistently the book is misread as foresight, often for rhetorical and dogmatic purposes. When Louise Brown, the first baby to be born through in vitro fertilization (IVF), arrived in 1978, Newsweek trumpeted her first “lusty yell” as “a cry heard round the brave new world”. The spectre of mass-produced, 'dehumanized' citizens was brandished by bioethicist Leon Kass, from his early opposition to IVF through to his thwarting of stem-cell research as the head of George W. Bush's Council on Bioethics. Brave New World has been co-opted as an off-the-shelf apocalyptic warning about where all such advances, from xenotransplantation (the interspecies grafting or transplanting of organs and tissues) to cloning, will lead.

All the same, one has to admit that Huxley's vision was sometimes right on the money. His state controls its citizens not by Orwellian repression but through a drug (soma) administered to engender bovine passivity, along with the opiate of consumerism. “A really efficient totalitarian state would be one in which [leaders] control a population of slaves who do not have to be coerced, because they love their servitude,” Huxley wrote. In his 1958 essay Brave New World Revisited , he rightly noted that “it now looks as though the odds were more in favour of something like Brave New World than of something like 1984 ”. His dystopian state uses non-stop, trivial, sensual distractions to prevent people from paying too much attention to social and political realities. One doesn't have to be a conspiracy theorist to see those enervating distractions —infotainment, social media, celebrity-dominated news — being useful today to both authoritarian and liberal regimes.

Yet despite such flashes of prescience, Brave New World is not a cautionary fable about particular trajectories in science or politics. The Central Hatchery is not prophetic; it is symbolic. Like Frankenstein , the book's lasting power is as a tale about ways in which we can lose our humanity. These ways differ in every age, but the result is much the same.

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Ball, P. In retrospect: Brave New World. Nature 503 , 338–339 (2013). https://doi.org/10.1038/503338a

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Brave New World : A Confinement Between Mythical and Behaviourist World-Views

• First Online: 02 June 2021

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• Aydan Turanli 7  

Part of the book series: Analecta Husserliana ((ANHU,volume 122))

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Aldous Huxley’s science-fictive dystopian novel Brave New World presents us with two different world-views based on different forms of life. One of them is New World’s behaviorist way of living, which suppresses feelings, emotions and sensitivities by means of conditioning, because “everyone belongs to everyone else” in a hierarchically organized society. The other, is the imprisonment of savages in the Reservation, which is a “primitive” way of living according to the description of the New World’s inhabitants. Although minor world-view clashes between the members of the New World occur, the major clash is between the Old World’s John the Savage and the New World’s inhabitants, which ends with a tragic event. Is this unavoidable?

In this article, I discuss whether it is possible for us to convince someone of a different world-view on merely rational grounds within the context of Brave New World . First, I concentrate on the New World and the conflict John the Savage lives within it. Secondly, I appeal to the views of political thinkers to understand whether rational means are enough to overcome our differences in a discussion over different forms of life. Thirdly, I discuss whether it is possible to solve the conflict by locating John the Savage in Huxley’s Island .

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Turanli, A. (2021). Brave New World : A Confinement Between Mythical and Behaviourist World-Views. In: Hornbuckle, C.A., Smith, J.S., Smith, W.S. (eds) Phenomenology of the Object and Human Positioning. Analecta Husserliana, vol 122. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-66437-4_8

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4 Huxley’s Feelies: Engineered Pleasure in Brave New World

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This chapter examines the intricate balance of pleasure and unpleasure in Aldous Huxley's novel, Brave New World . In particular, it considers the dense composite of references around the “feelies” in Brave New World , from a popular women's romance novel to William Shakespeare to race cinema and nature documentaries. It looks at Huxley's vision of futurity, or, as he called it, a “negative utopia,” that is paradoxically organized around pleasure. Just as D. H. Lawrence's work registers the attraction of the material he claims to reject, the engineered pleasures in Brave New World , including the feelies, exert a frivolous, sleazy magnetism that often contradicts the novel's argument against careless hedonism. The totalitarian culture that is meant to be repellent is secured by a wide variety of vernacular pleasures that are, from a readerly perspective, paradoxically engaging. The chapter explains how this irony is extended in Huxley's subsequent adaptation of Brave New World to a musical comedy.

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Brave New World

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A Critical Narrative Analysis of Brave New World

In this paper, I analyzed the idea of conditioning as the process by which an individual is prepared for his or her role in society.

Related Papers

jjjfddd hififog

This paper emphasizes on the themes of Brave New World by Aldous Huxley and how these themes are interconnected with the critical theories like Marxism,Feminism,Consumerism etc.

Daniel R Lashbrooke

This undergraduate dissertation examines the representation of social class, labour and social Darwinism in H.G. Wells' 'The Time Machine' and Aldous Huxley's 'Brave New World' and how they contextualise the history of the 19th and early 20th century conditions of labour and eugenics movements.

Ronja R Bodola (Tripp)

In: E. Voigts, A. Boller (Hg.): Dystopia, Science Fiction, Post-Apocalypse : Classic – New Tendencies – Model Interpretations. Trier: WVT 2015: 29-46.

Zeynep Eraslan

Bilal Hamamra

—Aldous Huxley's Brave New World (1932) is a nightmarish depiction of a post-human world where human beings are mass-produced to serve production and consumption. In this paper, I discuss the manipulations of minds and bodies with reference to Foucault's biopower and disciplinary systems that make the citizens of the world state more profitable and productive. I argue that Brave New World depicts a dystopian systematic control of mind and body through eugenic engineering, biological conditioning, hypnopaedia, sexual satisfaction, and drugs so as to keep the worldians completely controlled, collectivized and contented in a totalitarian society. The world state eradicates love, religion, art and history and deploys language devoid of any emotions and thoughts to control the mind that judges and decides. I argue that Brave New World anticipates the Foucauldian paradigm of resistance, subversion and containment, ending in eliminating the forces that pose a challenge to the ideology of the world state.

Transnational Corporations Review

Nada Elnahla , Ruth McKay

This paper examines the distinctive value of literature inside organisational theory, and how using narratives as possible future scenarios can help both academics and managers consider the consequences of mental health problems, the (mis)use of drugs, and the division of labour in the workplace. The paper adopts Aldous Huxley’s novel Brave New World for this purpose. Another contribution of the paper is providing a model that offers managers a step-by-step action plan of how to use literary texts to study sensitive workplace issues, generating new knowledge which would ultimately help them to envision ways to act appropriately and develop future strategies.

William Kim

Curtis D Carbonell

Nourhan Elometrey

This paper addresses both stylistic analysis and literary appreciation. It is a qualitative quantitative approach where content words like nouns, adjectives and verbs are harnessed to be analysed for proving the research question. This research paper is beneficial for corpus and stylistics students and researchers.

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Brave New World , novel by Aldous Huxley , published in 1932. The book presents a nightmarish vision of a future society.

Brave New World is set in 2540 ce , which the novel identifies as the year AF 632. AF stands for “after Ford,” as Henry Ford ’s assembly line is revered as god-like; this era began when Ford introduced his Model T . The novel examines a futuristic society, called the World State, that revolves around science and efficiency . In this society, emotions and individuality are conditioned out of children at a young age, and there are no lasting relationships because “every one belongs to every one else” (a common World State dictum). Huxley begins the novel by thoroughly explaining the scientific and compartmentalized nature of this society, beginning at the Central London Hatchery and Conditioning Centre, where children are created outside the womb and cloned in order to increase the population. The reader is then introduced to the class system of this world, where citizens are sorted as embryos to be of a certain class. The embryos, which exist within tubes and incubators , are provided with differing amounts of chemicals and hormones in order to condition them into predetermined classes. Embryos destined for the higher classes get chemicals to perfect them both physically and mentally, whereas those of the lower classes are altered to be imperfect in those respects. These classes, in order from highest to lowest, are Alpha, Beta , Gamma, Delta, and Epsilon. The Alphas are bred to be leaders, and the Epsilons are bred to be menial labourers.

Bernard Marx, an Alpha, is one of the main characters of the story. He and his love interest, Lenina Crowne, travel to a “savage reservation,” where Marx’s boss (the Director) supposedly lost a female companion some years ago. When the two arrive, they see people living there engaging in unfamiliar rituals. They also stumble upon a woman (Linda) and her son (John, also referred to as the Savage) who Marx correctly assumes to be the lost family mentioned by the Director. The Director had recently been threatening to send Marx away for his antisocial behavior, so Marx decides to bring the two home with him.

Marx presents Linda and John to the Director, and John, the son the Director never knew he had, calls the Director “father.” This provokes the Director’s resignation, as procreation between persons is outlawed, and his crime has been exposed. John is kept in the “brave new world,” as he calls it, as a sort of experiment. Linda, however, is sent to a hospital because of her addiction to “soma,” a drug used by citizens to feel calmer. She eventually dies because of it, which causes John to go on an anti-soma rampage in the hallway of the hospital.

John becomes angrier and angrier with this society, until eventually he runs away to a lighthouse to live in isolation. He is able to evade tourists and reporters for a while, but eventually they find him and gawk as he engages in self-flagellation. The intensity of the crowd increases when John whips not only himself but a woman as well. Crowds descend from helicopters to witness the spectacle. Another woman appears (who is implied to be Lenina), and John attempts to whip her too. John is soon overcome with passion, and, after coming under the influence of soma, he falls asleep. The next morning, appalled at his complicity in the system, he hangs himself.

Brave New World was written between World War I and World War II , the height of an era of technological optimism in the West. Huxley picked up on such optimism and created the dystopian world of his novel so as to criticize it. Much of the anxiety that drives Brave New World can be traced to a widespread belief in technology as a futuristic remedy for problems caused by disease and war. Unlike his fellow citizens, Huxley felt that such a reliance was naive, and he decided to challenge these ideas by imagining them taken to their extremes. Huxley’s life was surrounded by science, something that likely helped him to produce the science-heavy Brave New World . His grandfather ( Thomas Henry Huxley ) was a prominent biologist and an early advocate of Darwin ’s theory of evolution , and his brothers also became scientists. Aldous too had hoped to pursue a career in the sciences, but a disease left him partially blind as an adolescent and thus unable to continue on his scientific path.

After Brave New World ’s publication, Huxley was accused of plagiarizing the novel My by Yevgeny Zamyatin , written in 1920 and published in English as We in the United States in 1924. Huxley denied having read the book, and the similarities between the novels can be seen as an expression of common fears surrounding the rapid advancement of technology and of the shared opinions of many tech-skeptics during the early 20th century. Following Brave New World came more dystopian novels, including, most prominently, George Orwell ’s Nineteen Eighty-four (1949).

The clearest literary influence on Brave New World can be intuited from the title, which comes from a line in William Shakespeare ’s The Tempest , a play preoccupied with what it means to build a new society. John is himself an echo of the play’s character Caliban , who is described as a “savage.” Huxley also signals the Bard of Avon’s influence through John’s education on the reservation, where the curriculum consists primarily of the works of Shakespeare. Some critics considered Brave New World to be, ultimately, a futuristic parody of The Tempest .

The reception of Brave New World at its publication was primarily negative. Many were offended by the nature of Huxley’s future, and very few understood the novel’s philosophical implications . Many schools and libraries all over the world banned the novel, and even today it remains on lists of censored books. Parents and teachers argue that the novel’s themes of promiscuity, self-harm, and overall negativity are not suitable for children. Others, however, are still influenced by the novel’s take on dystopia , which forces the reader to ponder: In a perfect world with no poverty, sickness, or sadness, what is society missing? This question and the answers provided by Huxley in Brave New World are, perhaps, the reason the novel continues to resonate .

111 Brave New World Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

The importance of Aldous Huxley’s novel Brave New World can’t be overestimated. Today, its themes are as relevant as ever. If you’re looking for Brave New World essay titles or examples, you’re on the right page! But first, check out our simple writing guide.

🔝 Top 10 Brave New World Essay Topics

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First, you should pick up the topic. The first thing that your readers interact with when they read your paper is the topic and title. That’s why you should carefully select the issue you’re going to discuss in the essay.

Here’s how to select the perfect paper subject:

• Carefully read the essay instructions. Make sure that you understand them correctly.
• Look through the Brave New World essay examples on the page below. Make notes while reading them and select relevant topics.
• Adapt the topic to meet your requirements and start the research.

Brave New World Thesis: How to Write

After you’ve finished your research, it’s time to write Brave New World thesis statement. It should reflect what your paper will be about.

Remember, you should analyze the book instead of summarizing, unless you’re assigned to write a book summary. Keep the thesis statement short and strong.

Brave New World Essay Outline

The next step is to create a Brave New World essay outline. The more detailed it is, the easier will be the whole writing process. Point out key ideas you’re going to cover in your writing: your opinion, supporting arguments, and research results.

In your Brave New World essay introduction present your topic and thesis statement. Then, in the main body, share your point of view and provide supporting arguments. Lastly, in conclusion, summarize the key issues.

Brave New World Essay Prompts

Now, let’s talk about the content of your future paper. Below, you’ll find examples of Brave New World essay questions with prompts to discuss in your writing:

• Happiness and truth. Can anyone be happy without expressing their will freely? What are the elements of happiness described in the book? Investigate, what do you think happiness is and what constitutes it.
• Characters. Who is your favorite character? Provide in-depth character analysis in your paper.
• Shakespeare and John. What is the role of Shakespeare in Brave New World?
• What modern issues does Brave New World cover? How does the novel correlate to current events? Provide examples.
• Theme of drugs. How does soma contribute to the main theme of the novel? Express your opinion if people should self-medicate when they want to avoid true emotions?
• Theme of love. Is there a place for love and sentiment in the World State?
• Racial equality. How does the author describe gender and racial equality in the book? Does the World State have it?
• Depression and suicide. What are the reasons that led to John’s suicide? Could he avoid it?
• Technology and its impact on society. How did technological breakthroughs impact the establishment of the World State? How does the power of technology affect the citizens of the World State?

Aldous Huxley’s book still remains one of the most controversial masterpieces and has much more ideas for analysis than we provided above. IvyPanda essay samples presented below will also reveal some interesting opinions and thoughts you can use as a source of inspiration for your writing. Whether you’re looking for argumentative, descriptive, narrative, and expository essay topics, check the paper examples below!

• The World State’s Idea of Perfection
• The Role of Escapism in Huxley’s Novel
• Huxley’s Novel as a Critique of Modernity
• Love in a World of Artificial Happiness
• Individuality vs. Conformity in Brave New World
• Themes of Control and Oppression in Brave New World
• Technology as a Double-Edged Sword in Huxley’s Novel
• Conditioning and Indoctrination in Brave New World
• Freedom of Thought vs. Censorship in the World State
• Aldous Huxley’s Brave New World and Contemporary Societies
• The Brave New World Dystopia by Aldous Huxley The primary assertion in the novel is that the cost of this stability is the loss of individuality, creativity, and genuine human connection.
• Comparison of G. Orwell’s “1984”, R. Bradbury’s “Fahrenheit 451” and A. Huxley’s “Brave New World” The leadership is in charge of virtually each and every single activity that takes place in the lives of the inhabitants of the society.
• Quotations in Aldous Huxley’s “Brave New World” It was the sort of idea that might easily decondition the more unsettled minds among the higher castes make them lose their faith in happiness as the Sovereign Good and take to believing, instead, that […]
• The Dystopian Societies of “1984” and Brave New World The three features which are discussed in this respect are the division of the two societies into social strata, the use of state power and control over citizens, and the loss of people’s individualities.
• Biographical Analysis of Aldous Huxley’s Brave New World The writers came up with books and articles that tried to warn the society about the effects of their actions, while others tried to educate the society on what it needed to do to better […]
• Dystopias “Brave New World” by Huxley and “1984” by Orwell The modern world is full of complications and the moments when it seems like a dystopia the darkest version of the future. In the novel, promiscuity is encouraged, and sex is a form of entertainment.
• Brave New World, by Aldous Huxley He chooses to stay on, despite his clear disapproval of the society around him Before his trip to the wilds, he becomes aware of the imminent threat of exile.
• Brave New World by Aldous Huxley: Novel Analysis In addition, the clash of Alphas and Betas is drastic some strive for recognition and living in a fake world, while others try to preserve their human nature.
• The Future of Society in “Brave New World” by Huxley and “Amusing Ourselves to Death” by Postman Thus, this work will study the similarities between the visions of the authors of these literary works and their view of society.
• Huxley’s Brave New World Review Huxley has written in the introduction of his recent print of the book that much of the inspiration for the book was a result of his visit to the high technology Brunner and Mond plant […]
• Technology Control in Aldous Huxley’s “Brave New World” They leave you with a, but there is a self-limiting effect of all of our contemporary psychotropics and mood-alterers. The tabloid news is full of people who have become addicted to prescription drugs, or find […]
• Circumstance and Individual in Huxley’s “Brave New World” He is not allowed to participate fully in the rites and ceremonies of the Reservation, so he fashions his system of thought out of the scripture and the dramas he reads.
• Novel Response: Brave New World For instance, he uses changes in the world state society of the characters to illustrate how the changes influence their lives in a negative way.
• Common Theme Between Books These include psychological manipulation of the citizens, exercising physical control on the people, and using technology to control information, history and the citizens for the benefit of the party.
• The Predicted Modern Society in “Brave New World” by Aldous Huxley
• The Depiction of the Utopian Community in Huxley’s “Brave New World”
• The Funhouse Mirror: An Examination of Distortion of Government in Aldous Huxley’s “Brave New World”
• The Consequences of Living in a Society Under a Totalitarian Rule in Aldous Huxley’s “Brave New World”
• An Analysis of Satiric Elements in “Brave New World” by Aldous Huxley
• The Lost of Emotions for Social Stability in Aldous Huxley’s “Brave New World”
• Alcohol in Our Society; Huxley’s View in Relation To “Brave New World”
• The Similarities Between Government Control and Suppression of Individuality in “Brave New World” by Aldous Huxley
• The Satirical Representation of the Perfect Society in Aldous Huxley’s “Brave New World”
• Constant Individual Conditioning Is Needed to Reinforce Society in Huxley’s “Brave New World”
• An Analysis of the Reality That the World Have Inhuman Society Controlled by Technology in “Brave New World” by Aldous Huxley
• The Theme of History in “Brave New World” by Arthur Huxley and “1984” by George Orwell
• The Origin of Happiness in “Brave New World” by Aldous Huxley
• An Analysis of Propaganda and Hypnopaedic Teachings in “Brave New World” by Aldous Huxley
• A Literary Analysis of a “Brave New World” by Aldous Huxley
• Suppression of Individuality in Huxley’s “Brave New World”
• The Important Role of Reproductive Technology in the Social Control of “Brave New World” by Aldous Huxley
• A Contrast Between Two Societies in Aldous Huxley’s “Brave New World”
• The Superficial Reality of “Brave New World” by Aldous Huxley
• The Advancement of Science and Its Effects on the Individual in “Brave New World” by Aldous Huxley
• The Social and Sexual Interaction in the “Brave New World” by Aldous Huxley
• The Values of Society in Aldous Huxley’s “Brave New World” and Ridley Scott’s “Blade Runner”
• A Review of the Dangers of Technology in “Brave New World” by Aldous Huxley
• The Moral Dilemmas in Our Society in “Brave New World” by Aldous Huxley
• An Analysis of the Futuristic London in the Novel “Brave New World” by Aldous Huxley
• The Theme of Selfishness in a “Brave New World” by Aldous Huxley
• The Implications of Having Adults Filled With Suggestions From the States in “Brave New World” by Aldous Huxley
• The Dystopian and Utopian Societies in “Brave New World” by Aldous Huxley and “1984” by George Orwell
• The Pursuit of Happiness in Aldous Huxley’s “Brave New World”
• A Society of Drugs and Promiscuous Sexual Relations in a “Brave New World” by Aldous Huxley
• Using Soma to Find Happiness and Pleasure in “Brave New World” by Aldous Huxley
• The Issue of Cloning as Described in Aldous Huxley’s “Brave New World”
• The Role of Government and Technology in Aldous Huxley’s “Brave New World”
• The Role of Technology in Aldous Huxley’s “Brave New World”
• The Importance of Soma in Control of Social Stability in Aldous Huxley’s “Brave New World”
• An Overview of the Construction of “Brave New World” by Aldous Huxley
• The Portrayal of Community, Identity and Stability in Aldous Huxley’s “Brave New World”
• The Use of Distortion in “Brave New World” By Aldous Huxley
• A Critique the Depiction of Role of Science in “Brave New World” by Aldous Huxley
• The Non-Existence of Individualism in the “Brave New World” by Aldous Huxley
• An Analysis of the Advancement of Science in “Brave New World” by Aldous Huxley
• Utopia and Dystopia in the Futuristic Novel “Brave New World” by Aldous Huxley
• How Does “Brave New World” Illustrate the Point of Happiness?
• Does “Brave New World” Suggest That We Should Seek Something Else in Life Rather Than Our Happiness?
• How Are Women’s Bodies and Reproduction Depicted Within “Brave New World”?
• What Are the Parallels Between “Brave New World” and Our World Today?
• How Does “Brave New World” Compare to Biology?
• What Does “Brave New World” Suggest Be Valuable?
• How Does “Brave New World” Resemble the 21st Century?
• Why Does John Reject the Civilization Represented in “Brave New World”?
• How Does “Brave New World” Reflect the Context in Which It Was Written?
• Why Would Shakespeare Not Work in Brave New World?
• How Does the Novel “Brave New World” by Aldous Huxley Suggest That the Individual Will Be Treated in the Future?
• Will Aldous Huxley’s “Brave New World” Be Our Brave New World?
• How Far Have the Prophecies of “Brave New World” Come True?
• What Are Mustapha Mond’s Arguments Against Freedom in “Brave New World”?
• How Does Huxley’s “Brave New World” Portray Authority of Science and Technology on Society?
• Is John From “Brave New World” Really Freer Than the World State Members?
• How Would Plato and Sophists View the World of “Brave New World” by Aldous Huxley?
• What Is Huxley’s Vision of a Utilitarian Society in “Brave New World”?
• How Does the “Brave New World” by Aldous Huxley Compare to the Real World?
• Why Does Mustapha Mond Insist That Science Must Be Constrained in the Same Way That Art and Religion Are in “Brave New World”?
• How Does the “Brave New World” Fit Into the Six Characteristics of Malark’s Theory of Characteristics?
• What Traits of Humanity Does John Savage Represent in the “Brave New World”?
• Is Huxley’s Society in “Brave New World” Able to Suppress Religious Impulses Completely?
• In What Ways Does Huxley Moralize Sexuality in the “Brave New World”?
• Do You Believe That Huxley’s Blindness Influenced the Way He Viewed Society in “Brave New World”?
• Why Does John Savage Kill Himself at the End of the “Brave New World”?
• Do You Believe That Mustapha Mond Is the Antagonist of the “Brave New World”?
• Is “Brave New World” a Utopia or a Dystopia?
• What Is the Main Message of “Brave New World”?
• Can Happiness Be Reached Through Drugs Like “Soma” From “Brave New World”?
• Ethical Implications of Genetic Engineering in Brave New World
• Brave New World vs. 1984: A Comparison of Dystopian Societies
• The Critique of Consumerism and Mass Production in Brave New World
• The Theme of Dehumanization of Art and Creativity in a Technologically Advanced Society
• Psychological Manipulation and Mind Control in Brave New World
• How Gender and Sexuality Are Represented in Huxley’s Brave New World
• Religion and Spirituality in a Technological Utopia
• How Control and Surveillance in the World State Create the Illusion of Freedom
• The Impact of Conditioning and Sleep-Learning on Characters’ Behavior
• Huxley’s Vision of the Future: Predictions That Came True
• The Historical Events That Inspired Brave New World
• The Role of Soma in Maintaining Social Stability in the World State
• Satire and Social Commentary in Brave New World
• Savage Reservation’s Contrast with the World State’s Society
• Brave New World and Utopia: The Paradox of Perfection
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Brave New World Research Paper Topics

This article offers an in-depth guide to Brave New World research paper topics , serving as a vital resource for literature students exploring Aldous Huxley’s dystopian masterpiece. From a comprehensive list of diverse research avenues, insights into the novel’s vast scope for study, to valuable tips on selecting and writing on pertinent topics, this article is a one-stop solution. Additionally, students can learn about iResearchNet’s unparalleled writing services tailored to their specific needs, ensuring academic excellence. Embark on this enlightening journey to uncover the layers of Brave New World and craft a compelling research paper.

Aldous Huxley’s Brave New World offers a riveting vision of a dystopian future, delving into numerous themes and presenting readers with complex characters. This complexity makes it a rich source for academic exploration. For students venturing into a research paper on this novel, here’s a comprehensive list, categorized into 10 areas, offering a total of 100 unique Brave New World research paper topics that you can delve into.

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1. Societal Structure and Control:

• The Role of the World State in maintaining societal stability.
• Conditioning and its effects on individual freedom.
• The absence of family and its implications on individual identity.
• The caste system: ensuring societal stability or breeding discontent?
• The suppression of historical and cultural understanding in the World State.
• The role of technology in controlling society.
• Rituals and routines: their impact on individuality.
• The concept of community versus individual in Brave New World .
• The idea of universal happiness and its societal costs.
• Comparison between the World State and Plato’s ideal society.

2. Happiness and Freedom:

• Soma: a means to guaranteed happiness or societal control?
• The cost of happiness in the World State.
• Personal freedom versus societal stability: the balance in Brave New World .
• Bernard Marx’s quest for individual freedom.
• The dichotomy of pain and pleasure in Huxley’s dystopian world.
• True happiness versus induced contentment.
• The conditioning of happiness: natural or manufactured?
• The Savage’s view on happiness and civilization.
• Can freedom and societal induced happiness coexist?
• Consumerism as a tool for producing happiness.

3. Science and Technology:

• The role of reproductive technology in the World State.
• The Bokanovsky Process: implications and outcomes.
• The moral implications of genetically pre-determined lives.
• The use of hypnopaedic learning: benefits and drawbacks.
• Science as a tool for societal control.
• Conditioning vs. genetics: which plays a bigger role in citizen conformity?
• The eradication of natural birth: consequences and implications.
• Science’s role in eliminating individual uniqueness.
• Can science determine morality? Exploring Huxley’s view.
• The clash between science and nature in Brave New World .

4. Religion and Spirituality:

• The replacement of religion with technology and science.
• The role of Fordism in the World State.
• Spirituality in a world devoid of religious beliefs.
• The World State’s rationale for eradicating religion.
• The Savage’s spiritual awakening in the face of World State’s ideologies.
• The worship of technology: a new religion.
• The State’s manipulation of religious tendencies for societal control.
• Can true spirituality exist in the World State?
• The contrast of religion in the Savage Reservations and the World State.
• Huxley’s critique of organized religion through Brave New World .

5. Nature vs. Nurture:

• The role of conditioning in shaping individuals in the World State.
• Can nature prevail over societal nurture in Brave New World ?
• John the Savage as a case study of nature vs. nurture.
• The removal of familial bonds: implications on nature and nurture debate.
• Is individuality a product of nature or nurture in Huxley’s world?
• How the environment shapes the citizens of the World State.
• The natural instincts of humans in a controlled environment.
• Bernard Marx’s struggle between societal nurture and individual nature.
• The eradication of natural environments and its effects on citizens.
• Helmholtz Watson: a nurture product or nature rebel?

6. Human Relationships:

• The transformation of love and relationships in the World State.
• The World State’s view on monogamy and family.
• The detachment of sex from emotions and commitments.
• The role of conditioning in shaping relationships.
• Friendship in the world of manufactured happiness.
• Parent-child relationships: an alien concept in Brave New World .
• The concept of motherhood in the World State and the Savage Reservations.
• The degradation of intimate relationships in Huxley’s vision.
• Can genuine love exist in the World State?
• The manipulation of human relationships for societal stability.

7. Individuality and Conformity:

• The suppression of individualism in the World State.
• Characters resisting conformity: Bernard Marx and Helmholtz Watson.
• The role of conditioning in suppressing individualism.
• The costs of a conformist society.
• The rarity and consequences of rebellion in Brave New World .
• John the Savage’s struggle for individuality.
• The societal mechanisms in place to ensure conformity.
• The elimination of art and its effects on individual expression.
• The paradox of individuality in a state-controlled society.
• The concept of individual thought in the World State.

8. Education and Indoctrination:

• Hypnopaedic learning: methodology and implications.
• The early conditioning of children for specific societal roles.
• The eradication of history as a means of control.
• The role of education in shaping societal perspectives.
• The suppression of intellectual growth in Brave New World .
• Can true learning occur in a world of pre-determined beliefs?
• The State’s approach to education versus the Savage’s understanding of learning.
• The role of literature and arts in education: the World State’s perspective.
• The homogenization of education for societal stability.
• Huxley’s critique of modern education through Brave New World .

9. Art, Culture, and Entertainment:

• The absence of true art and its implications on society.
• The Feelies: entertainment or another means of control?
• Literature’s role in shaping or degrading society.
• The State’s rationale for eradicating Shakespeare and classical arts.
• The superficiality of art and culture in the World State.
• The sterilization of music, literature, and arts for societal stability.
• The value of art in the Savage Reservations versus the World State.
• The manipulation of cultural artifacts for societal control.
• Can true creativity exist in Huxley’s dystopian world?
• Huxley’s critique of modern entertainment culture.

10. Critique of Modernity:

• Brave New World as a critique of consumer culture.
• The consequences of unchecked technological advancements.
• Huxley’s warnings about sacrificing nature for comfort.
• The dangers of valuing societal stability over individual freedom.
• The loss of historical understanding in the face of progress.
• Huxley’s perspective on the cost of modern conveniences.
• The dilution of human emotions for societal progress.
• Brave New World as a reflection on the potential pitfalls of modern civilization.
• The degradation of human values in the quest for technological advancement.
• The potential consequences of a society obsessed with progress.

Huxley’s Brave New World challenges readers to reflect on numerous aspects of society, progress, and human nature. These topics, ranging from the role of technology to the essence of individuality, provide a plethora of avenues for deep academic exploration. Whether you wish to focus on the novel’s societal structures, its critique of modernity, or its intricate characters, there’s a topic in this comprehensive list that’s bound to ignite your intellectual curiosity.

Brave New World and the Range of Research Paper Topics It Offers

Aldous Huxley’s Brave New World remains one of the paragons of 20th-century dystopian fiction. Published in 1932, the novel presents a chilling projection of a society where individual agency, human emotions, and genuine interpersonal relationships are sacrificed for societal stability, technological advancements, and ubiquitous contentment. This imagined world, however sterile and unsettling, offers literature students a treasure trove of research topics. From the philosophical connotations interwoven within the narrative to the sociopolitical implications of the World State, the spectrum of academic exploration is vast and profound.

Societal Mechanisms and Their Influence on Humanity

At its core, Brave New World scrutinizes the concept of societal control. The World State, in its quest for stability, has eradicated all elements it deems inconsistent with universal happiness. This includes natural birth, familial ties, historical understanding, and even the unpredictability of nature itself. The Bokanovsky process, which allows for the mass production of human beings, not only challenges the very essence of human birth but raises questions about identity and individualism. Such extreme measures pose the question: At what point does the pursuit of collective happiness undermine the very essence of humanity?

The Duality of Science: Progress or Regression?

The scientific achievements of the World State are remarkable. They have mastered genetic engineering, psychological conditioning, and even the art of placating the masses through chemical means, i.e., soma. Yet, these feats of science have come at a tangible cost. In shaping citizens to fit specific roles, from Alphas to Epsilons, the State has stripped them of their individuality. Here, Huxley seems to present a cautionary tale, warning of the dehumanizing potential of unchecked scientific and technological advancements.

The Commodification of Happiness

In Brave New World , happiness is not a byproduct of personal achievement, genuine relationships, or even moments of serendipity. Instead, it’s manufactured. The State has assumed the role of a supplier, providing its citizens with regulated doses of happiness in the form of entertainment, sexual liberation, and the omnipresent soma. This commodification of happiness warrants exploration. It raises pertinent questions about the authenticity of emotions and the moral implications of a society that trades depth of feeling for a surface-level contentment.

The Lost Art of Authentic Relationships

Love, parenthood, and deep friendships: these cornerstones of human relationships are virtually absent in Huxley’s world. The State promotes promiscuity, conditions away familial affections, and ensures that no citizen feels the weight of emotional dependence on another. John the Savage’s tragic plight highlights the depth of human emotions, contrasting starkly with the superficial relationships of World State citizens. The novel, in essence, offers a platform to explore the intrinsic need for authentic human connections and the psychological and societal ramifications of their absence.

Religion and Spirituality in a Godless Society

While the World State has eradicated traditional religions, replacing spiritual figures with figures like Henry Ford, the human propensity towards spirituality hasn’t been entirely eliminated. Rituals, though different, still exist. The reverence for technology, the quasi-religious observance of State ideologies, and even the Savage’s desperate search for meaning all indicate that spiritual tendencies remain intrinsic to the human condition. This facet of the novel provides fertile ground to discuss the role of religion in shaping, or perhaps reflecting, societal values.

The Tragedy of Lost Potential

Characters like Bernard Marx and Helmholtz Watson embody the tragedy of unrealized potential in the World State. While most citizens are conditioned to be content with their lot, these characters exhibit sparks of individuality, curiosity, and a deep-seated sense of discontent. Their personal journeys, struggles with societal norms, and eventual fates can serve as focal points for exploring the themes of individualism, resistance, and the human desire for meaning beyond the confines of societal roles.

Aldous Huxley’s Brave New World isn’t merely a work of fiction; it’s a mirror reflecting some of the more profound questions about humanity, society, and the direction in which we might be heading. For students and scholars, the novel is a labyrinth of intriguing corridors, each leading to a topic ripe for academic exploration. Whether one is delving into the ethical considerations of genetic engineering, examining the societal implications of manufactured happiness, or probing the depths of human relationships in a sterile world, Brave New World ensures a rich, multifaceted journey into the realms of literary analysis.

How to Choose Brave New World Research Paper Topics

Choosing Brave New World research paper topics can be both an exciting and daunting task. The richness of Huxley’s vision, the depth of his characters, and the multitude of philosophical, sociological, and psychological themes interwoven into the fabric of the narrative present a plethora of avenues for scholarly exploration. To streamline this process and ensure that your topic resonates with your interests and offers substantial academic value, consider the following guidelines:

• Personal Resonance: Begin by identifying which aspect of the novel personally resonates with you the most. Was it the emotional journey of John the Savage that tugged at your heartstrings, or the cold efficiency of the World State’s sociopolitical machinery that piqued your interest? Choose Brave New World research paper topics that you’re passionate about, as this will drive your research and writing processes.
• Interdisciplinary Approach: Consider approaching the text from an interdisciplinary perspective. While literary analysis is foundational, integrating aspects of sociology, psychology, or even political science can offer a fresh perspective.
• Historical Context: Understand the historical context in which Huxley wrote Brave New World . Delving into the societal and technological developments of the early 20th century might provide insights into Huxley’s inspirations and concerns, shaping your research direction.
• Character Analysis: Choose a character that intrigues you. Dive deep into their psyche, motivations, relationships, and eventual fate. Characters like Bernard Marx, Lenina Crowne, or even Mustapha Mond offer rich grounds for exploration.
• Philosophical Exploration: The novel is rife with philosophical questions about humanity, happiness, freedom, and society. Identify a particular philosophical theme and analyze how Huxley addresses it throughout the narrative.
• Comparative Analysis: Compare Brave New World with other dystopian works, such as Orwell’s 1984 or Atwood’s The Handmaid’s Tale . Such a comparative study can lead to enlightening findings about the concerns of different authors in different times.
• Thematic Focus: Instead of focusing on the entire book, hone in on a particular theme—be it the use of technology, the role of art and literature, the nature of happiness, or societal control mechanisms.
• The Role of Symbolism: Identify and analyze symbols within the text. The use of soma, the feelies, or even the conditioning processes can offer a layered understanding of Huxley’s dystopia.
• Modern Relevance: How does Brave New World relate to our current society? Are there elements in the book that seem eerily prescient? Exploring the contemporary relevance of the novel might make your research even more engaging.
• Seek Feedback: Discuss your potential Brave New World research paper topics with peers, professors, or even online forums dedicated to literature. Feedback can help refine your topic or provide new angles you hadn’t considered.

Choosing Brave New World research paper topics is an opportunity to engage deeply with one of the 20th century’s most compelling dystopian visions. Ensure your topic aligns with your academic goals, interests, and the broader scholarly discourse on Huxley’s magnum opus. Remember, the best research emerges when the researcher is genuinely invested in the inquiry, so let your curiosity and passion guide your choice.

How to Write a Brave New World Research Paper

Crafting a research paper on a complex literary work like Aldous Huxley’s Brave New World is both an academic challenge and an opportunity to delve deep into the intricacies of the author’s dystopian vision. However, a systematic approach can simplify the process and produce a compelling analysis. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you construct an insightful paper on this seminal work:

• Thorough Reading: Before anything else, immerse yourself in the world Huxley has created. Read the novel multiple times, making notes on key events, character developments, and thematic elements. Familiarity with the text is crucial.
• Develop a Thesis Statement: Your thesis is the backbone of your paper. It should be a clear, concise statement that indicates the primary focus or argument you’ll be making in your essay. For instance, “In Brave New World , Huxley argues that the pursuit of unhindered happiness at the expense of genuine human experiences can lead to societal stagnation.”
• Research Secondary Sources: While your primary analysis is essential, familiarize yourself with existing scholarship on Brave New World . Academic journals, critiques, and essays can provide different perspectives and bolster your arguments.
• Create an Outline: Plan the structure of your paper. Determine the flow of your argument, ensuring each section logically progresses into the next. An outline will keep your research and writing on track.
• Engaging Introduction: Start with a captivating hook—a quote, a question, or a provocative statement. Introduce the novel and Aldous Huxley, and conclude the introduction with your thesis statement.
• Body Paragraphs: Each paragraph should start with a topic sentence that introduces the main idea. Follow this with evidence from the text and secondary sources, analysis of the evidence, and a concluding sentence that wraps up the paragraph’s argument and connects it to the next point.
• Provide Context: Consider delving into the historical, social, or philosophical context in which Huxley was writing. How do the concerns of the early 20th century reflect in his dystopian society?
• Integrate Quotes: Use quotes from the novel to support your arguments. However, don’t let them stand alone. Analyze and interpret their significance in relation to your thesis.
• Discuss Counterarguments: Address potential counterarguments or alternative interpretations of the text. This demonstrates a comprehensive understanding and strengthens your primary argument.
• Concluding Remarks: Summarize the main points you’ve made in your paper, restate the thesis, and offer a broader implication of your findings. What does your analysis suggest about Huxley’s view on human nature, society, or the future?

Final Touches:

• Revision: Once the initial draft is complete, set it aside for a day or two. Return to it with fresh eyes, looking for areas of improvement in content, flow, and coherence.
• Proofreading: Check for grammatical errors, punctuation mistakes, and formatting issues. If possible, ask a peer or mentor to review your paper—they might spot errors you’ve missed.
• Citation: Ensure all your sources, both primary and secondary, are cited correctly in the required format (APA, MLA, Chicago/Turabian, Harvard).

Writing a research paper on Brave New World can be a rewarding intellectual journey, offering insights into Huxley’s profound observations on humanity and society. Stay organized, remain curious, and let the depth and richness of the text guide your academic exploration.

iResearchNet Writing Services

Venturing into the comprehensive analysis of a masterpiece like Brave New World can be daunting, even for seasoned literature students. Recognizing this challenge, iResearchNet has designed a suite of specialized writing services to assist students in producing top-notch research papers on Aldous Huxley’s visionary work. Here’s what makes our offerings unparalleled:

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Dive deep into the dystopian universe Aldous Huxley meticulously crafted in Brave New World . Beyond its engaging narrative lies a wealth of thought-provoking themes and intricate character dynamics that beckon thorough exploration. But why venture into this literary odyssey alone? iResearchNet is here to be your steadfast companion, guiding you through the novel’s complexities and helping you articulate your unique interpretations.

Our expert team, equipped with vast knowledge and a passion for literature, is eager to assist you in translating your understanding into compelling academic discourse. Whether you’re keen on dissecting Bernard Marx’s character arc, exploring the societal implications of the World State, or juxtaposing Huxley’s vision with modern realities, we have you covered.

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Frontiers in Art Research , 2022, 4(6); doi: 10.25236/FAR.2022.040611 .

Deconstructing Utopia: Discussion of the Theme of Brave New World

Hanyue Kuang

Boston College, Boston, 02101-02117, America

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For a long time, man has wished for a long-lasting peaceful and perfect world. As a result, Utopian literature appears, beginning from Plato’s conceiving of an ideal society in Republic to its peak when More offers the public a picture of such a society in his masterpiece Utopia. Nevertheless, in the 20th century, especially after the Second World War, many scholars have given up their imagination of Utopia and turned their attention toward its opposite form—dystopia: the criticism and satire of current reality and the discussion of the hidden defects of Utopia. Thus, there exists the relationship of inheritance and evolution between Utopian writings and Dystopian literature. Brave New World, as one of the Dystopia Trilogy, written by Aldous Huxley, focuses on the real social problems of “the World State”, the modern Utopia. Technology has increasingly penetrated into human’s daily life in every aspect. Issues about ethics of science and technology has provided constant warnings for both scientists and common citizens. Human beings are frequently confronted with such a question “whether advancement in science and technology leads to the alienation of humanity.” If there is no perfect society, where will human beings head for finally? These are the topics the novelist is concerned about. This thesis will focus on the detailed analysis of the fate of main characters and social systems portrayed by Aldous Huxley in Brave New World so as to demonstrate the inhuman and irrational nature of “the World State” under its manifestation of “stability, advancement and happiness”, thus deconstructing Utopian fantasy of the novel, illustrating its Dystopian theme and at the same time inquiring about the possibility of establishing a more ideal society.

Aldous Huxley; Brave New World; Utopia; Dystopia

Cite This Paper

Hanyue Kuang. Deconstructing Utopia: Discussion of the Theme of Brave New World. Frontiers in Art Research (2022) Vol. 4, Issue 6: 54-65. https://doi.org/10.25236/FAR.2022.040611.

[1] Barr, Bob. “Aldous Huxley’s Brave New World—Still A Chilling Vision After All These Years” Michigan Law Review 4 (2010): 847-857.

[2] Boone, N.S. “D. H. Lawrence’s ‘Men Must Work and Women as Well’ in Aldous Huxley’s Brave New World” Notes and Queries 61 (2014): 133–135.

[3] Buchanan, Brad. “Oedipus in Dystopia: Freud and Lawrence in Aldous Huxley's Brave New World” Journal of Modern Literature 25 (2002): 75-89.

[4] Clayton, Jay. “The Modern Synthesis: Genetics and Dystopia in the Huxley Circle.” Modernism/Modernity 23 (2016): 875-896.

[5] Congdon, Brad. “Community, Identity, Stability: The Scientific Society and the Future of Religion in Aldous Huxley's Brave New World” English Studies in Canada 37 (2011): 83-105.

[6] Dong, Yumin. “Analysis of Dystopia in Huxley’s Brave New World” Journal of Liaoning University of Technology (Social Science Edition) 2011 (5): 53-55

[7] Firchow, Peter. “Science and Conscience in Huxley's ‘Brave New World.’” Contemporary Literature 16 (1975):301–316.

[8] Huxley, Aldous. Brave New World. London: Penguin Random House, 2017.

[9] Karen, Yeung. “Can We Employ Design-Based Regulation While Avoiding Brave New World?” Law, Innovation and Technology 3 (2011): 1-30.

[10] Li, Zeng and Liu, Y ingjie. “The Humanity Crisis under Scientism and Totalitarianism” Foreign Languages and Their Teaching 2010(5): 85-88.

[11] Lin, Jixin. “‘Technocracy’ makes ‘One-dimensional Man’---Analysis of Marcuse’s One-dimensional Man exemplified by Brave New World” Journal of the Party School of XPCC of C.P.C, 2014(2): 49-52.

[12] Liu, Lixia. “The Duality of Dystopia Literature” Master Thesis from Qiqihar University, 2013.

[13] Liu, Lixia and Yang, Lei. “The Value of Post-modernism in Dystopia Literature” Master Thesis from Qiqihar University 2014(4): 183-186.

[14] Liu, Ning. “The Dark world where Humanities Disappear – Analysis the alienation theme in Brave New World” Journal of Mudanjiang University, 2015(12): 99-105.

[15] Matter, William W. “The Utopian Tradition and Aldous Huxley” Science Fiction Studies 2 (1975):146-151. 

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[18] Vinodhkumar, M. “Bioethics in Aldous Huxley’s Brave New World” Imperial Journal of Interdisciplinary Research 3 (2017): 178-180.

[19] Wang, Xiaoying. The Lost of Humanities under Technology Control. Foreign Literature Studies, 2009, (01): 131-132.

[20] Yuan, Chenchen. “The Study of ‘groups’ in British Dystopia Novels”. Master Thesis from Shandong University, 2014.

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Brave New World Research Paper

When Huxley wrote the novel Brave New World in 1931, he made predictions about how the world would be in the future. While his novel is set hundreds of years in the future, some of the predictions he made were true, some are partly true, some are completely untrue, and some are on their way to being true in our world.  Below are some features of Huxley’s society. This is only a partial list; there are many more.

Your assignment:  Choose a feature of Huxley’s society that you would like to research. You will write an essay (using quotes and paraphrases from your research) in which you explore different aspects of your topic in our world and the World State. You will need to include information about how and why your topic is featured in the novel, examples of its prominence, and what its prominence says about our society.

You will have time in both the library and the computer lab to do research, but any research you do not complete in that time will be your responsibility to complete on your own time.  

Brave New World Research Paper Prompts

What did Aldous Huxley correctly predict that is evident in our world today, and where did he miss the boat?

Eugenics – Define the aspects of  eugenics, investigate where and how the study began, who has used the ideas throughout history, and what part of it exists in society today? Find interesting LOGOS – facts, study results, and statistics, as well as PATHOS – anecdotes and real-life examples. Also be prepared to answer questions related to the book such as:

Investigate the role eugenics plays in the novel, and what is its purpose?

What is it called in the novel and how does it work?

Why do you think Huxley chose this idea to center his novel around? What kind of message is he relaying?

Socialism – What is socialism and what is its intent? Where did it begin? How successful has it been? Has it transformed? Where does it still exist? Find interesting LOGOS – facts, study results, and statistics, as well as PATHOS – anecdotes and real-life examples. Also be prepared to answer questions related to the book such as:

What elements of socialism exist in the novel?

What conditions in the novel are necessary for socialism to work in the new world?

What is Huxley’s message about socialism?

Communism - What is communism and what is its intent? Where did it begin? How successful has it been? What is the difference between communism and socialism? Democracy? Where does it still exist? Find interesting LOGOS – facts, study results, and statistics, as well as PATHOS – anecdotes and real-life examples. Also be prepared to answer questions related to the book such as:

What elements of communism do you see in the novel?

What elements of democracy do you see in the novel?

What is Huxley’s message about communism?

Utopia– What is Utopia? Where did this idea come from and how has it been used in history? What is the difference between Utopia and dystopia? Where do we still see elements of Utopian thought in our society today? Find interesting LOGOS – facts, study results, and statistics, as well as PATHOS – anecdotes and real-life examples. Also be prepared to answer questions related to the book such as:

Why is Brave New World a dystopian novel instead of a utopian one?

What does Mustopha Mond say about why his “utopia” works? Do you agree?

What is Huxley’s message about “utopia?”

Bioengineering – Where is the field of bioengineering today? At what stage of  development was bioengineering when Huxley wrote this book? What technology has been a game-changer in bioengineering, what can we potentially do in the future? Find interesting LOGOS – facts, study results, and statistics, as well as PATHOS – anecdotes and real-life examples. Also be prepared to answer questions related to the book such as:

What role does bioengineering play in the novel?

What did Huxley accurately and/or inaccurately predict about our bioengineering abilities?\What is Huxley’s message about bioengineering?

Legal and illegal drug use/abuse – What illegal drugs are most popular today, and which economic/social classes are most likely to take these drugs? What are they used for? Same questions for legal drugs. Who abuses them and how? Find interesting LOGOS – facts, study results, and statistics, as well as PATHOS – anecdotes and real-life examples. Also be prepared to answer questions related to the book such as:

How are drugs use portrayed in the novel?

If soma were real, what type of drug would it be most like?

What is Huxley’s message about drug use?

Why would Soma be considered a designer drug?

What are the similarities between what we call designer drugs today, and soma?

What message does Huxley intend to convey through the addition of soma in the novel?

Aldous Huxley – What was his life like? Timeline? What experiences in his life are evident, or influences his writing, especially of Brave New World? Find interesting LOGOS – facts, study results, and statistics, as well as PATHOS – anecdotes and real-life examples. Also be prepared to answer questions related to the book such as:

What parallels do you see between events in Huxley’s life and the novel?

Where did Huxley get the desire to create a dystopian novel?

Do any characters of settings come from his life and if so, how does he use them in the novel?

Present-day propaganda and subliminal messages – Research what today’s advertising uses to convince us to consume and conform, and what government uses to control us. Find interesting LOGOS – facts, study results, and statistics, as well as PATHOS – anecdotes and real-life examples. Also be prepared to answer questions related to the book such as:

What subliminal messages were present in the novel?

How were characters manipulated by propaganda and messages?

What role does consumerism have in the novel, and what is Huxley’s message about it?

Economic and social caste systems – What is a caste system and which countries have had these systems, or still do have them? What does the economic and social classes look like presently in the United States? How has our democratic, capitalist society developed into a sort of caste system? How are the castes/classes maintained in this country?  Find interesting LOGOS – facts, study results, and statistics, as well as PATHOS – anecdotes and real-life examples. Also be prepared to answer questions related to the book such as:

How is the idea of a caste system used in the novel?

How do the people in the new world identify members of castes?

Having been a Brit, what was Huxley’s message about castes, at least when he wrote it?

What would he say about our society today?

Research Requirements

Requirements:

Paper length: 4-5 pages

Sources: 3 sources, notes: to be reviewed during “check-in” conference--see date below, annotated bibliography: summary and analysis of each source with an explanation of how you will use it in your paper and an accurate mla citation, outline: format to be discussed in class, rough draft available on specified date for peer editing.

• Important dates:

** there will be additional classwork assignments that will support this unit-- to be collected each week

Requirement Details

The paper you produce must have 3 secondary sources plus the primary one—Brave New World  for a total of 4 sources minimum.

All sources must be authoritative; that is, they MUST be scholarly. You may not use sources outside of the library databases or library books unless approved by the teacher in writing.

You may not use anything from Wikipedia or any encyclopedia. You may not use any material from Spark Notes, Cliff’s Notes, Pink Monkey, or any other commercially prepared study guide of that nature. Other unacceptable sources include plot summaries such as Bloom’s “Plot Summary,” Foster Masterplots, and Schmoop.com.

Your final essay must be at least 4 full pages typed, not including the Works Cited page which should be the last page of your paper.

Research Paper Proposal

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Brave New World

Dystopian fiction is perhaps my favorite genre of literature, and there a number of dystopian novels that rank among the classics of English-language literature. Brave New World is one of them. Although George Orwell’s 1984 gets more attention from critics, and Orwell’s ideas and insights have rightly been singularly influential, Huxley’s Brave New World presents a different vision of a dystopian future that has also proven disturbingly prescient. Ideally, the two novels should be read together for comparison and contrast. Both novels contain numerous deeply disturbing parallels to contemporary political and social trends.

Thirty years after the 1932 publication of Brave New World , Huxley wrote a nonfiction follow-up to the novel called Brave New World Revisited in which he made connections between social and technological trends and the world envisioned in the novel. I recommend buying an edition that contains both works.

Several resources for comparing and contrasting Brave New World and 1984 are linked here. The “Huxley vs. Orwell” webcomic is based on the 1985 book Amusing Ourselves to Death: Public Discourse in the Age of Show Business , in which Neil Postman describes a contemporary America that in many ways resembles Huxley’s vision.

See the article “The 30 Best Dystopian Novels of All Time” for a good introduction to many of the most popular and acclaimed dystopian novels, all of which are recommended for further reading.

Related Resources

Brave New World Study Questions (PDF)

Amazon | Parnassus | Powell’s

Brave New World and BNW Revisited

Amusing Ourselves to Death

Huxley vs. Orwell: The Webcomic

Which Dystopian Novel Got It Right? (NYT)

Orwell vs. Huxley Infographic

The 30 Best Dystopian Novels of All Time

Study Questions

Chapters 1-3.

1. Why do you think Huxley opens the book with a tour of a “hatchery” instead of by introducing the main characters? How does the hatchery relate to the society of the “brave new world”?

2. Describe the way this society functions. In what ways is it different from our society (in terms of the people’s values, the way they live, the organization of society, etc.)? Why do you think the author chose Ford to be the “God” of this society?

3. What methods does this society employ to ensure social stability? What is the main goal of these methods?

4. Analyze the Director and Mr. Foster’s behavior toward Lenina (Chapter 3). What does it indicate about this society? Why is the Director called just “the Director” and not given a name—what effects does this have, and how does this relate to the author’s presentation of this society?

5. How would you describe the mood and the tone of the novel, and how does the author establish this mood and tone? How is it significant in terms of interpreting the novel? Contrast the way the characters speak and the setting’s atmosphere (mood) with what you can infer about the author’s attitude toward these things (tone).  The first page should give you a good indication of how the reader is supposed to react to these descriptions of this futuristic society.

Chapters 4-6

1. What does the narrator suggest is the source of Bernard’s self-consciousness and dissatisfaction with society? Describe Bernard’s friend Helmholtz. How are Helmholtz’s self-consciousness and dissatisfaction with society different from Bernard’s?

2. What is the function of the Solidarity Service? Discuss the various ways in which this purpose is accomplished (the various facets of the Service). Why do you think most of the attendees react so strongly to the Service?  How does Bernard react, and why?  What aspects of Christianity do you recognize in the Service, and why would these things have been preserved?

3. What do you think Bernard means when he speaks of wanting to be “free to be happy in some other way”? What does he mean when he says that he wants to “try the effect of arresting [his] impulses,” and how does that idea apply to his relationship with Lenina? What does he mean when he says that he wants to be an adult all the time—how are the people of this society “infants where feeling and desire are concerned”?  What does Lenina’s reaction to Bernard’s unhappiness about their date show about her?  (Refer to these lines near the end of Part 1: “Lenina felt all her triumph suddenly evaporate.  Perhaps he had found her too plump, after all.”)

4. Why is talking about the “remote past” (probably anything more than a year before) a taboo? What do you think drives the Director to unconsciously violate this taboo? What do Bernard’s initial reaction to being reprimanded, his bragging to Helmholtz, and his reaction upon learning of his impending transfer to Iceland (Part 3) show about his character?

5. Why do you think the Reservations are maintained? What is shown about the people of this society by their attitude toward and treatment of the “savages”?

6. How does the novel suggest that the average person of this society would react to being exposed to images of nature such as the ocean and the night sky (recall Lenina’s reaction when Bernard makes her look at the ocean)? Why do you think they would react this way?

Chapters 7-9

1. What things do Bernard and Lenina find disturbing about the Indians’ way of life and environment? Describe some of the scenes they witness.

2. What is the significance of the steady beat of the drums used in the Indians’ ritual—why do you think drums are found in so many cultures? What similarities are there between some aspects of the Indians’ way of life and the way people in the “brave new world” live? What does this say about human nature?

3. What effect does seeing Lenina have on John, and why? Why is the expression on her face such an “amazing novelty”?

4. Why didn’t Linda escape from the Reservation? What conflicting feelings does Linda have about John, and what shows this? What “little animals” do you think Linda found in John’s hair, and why did they make her scream?

5. Describe the childhood experiences that influenced John’s personality. Why does he call his mother “Linda”? Why does he have such a peculiar way of speaking?  In what important way are John and Bernard similar?

6. Why do you think Bernard is so eager to take John and Linda to London—what plan does he have? What is ironic about John’s proclamation that he is going to a “brave new world”? What foreshadowing is there in Bernard’s response to this proclamation?

Chapters 10-12

1. Why does the Director consider Unorthodoxy the most heinous crime? What kinds of unorthodoxy is Bernard guilty of?

2. Describe and explain the reaction of the workers in the Decanting Room to Linda and John’s entrance. How does the Director react?

3. How does Linda react to being back in “civilization”? How does John feel about this, and what difference in values does this show—what does this indicate about John’s view of what it means to live a truly human life? Describe Dr. Shaw’s reaction to seeing her.

4. How is Bernard transformed as a result of his association with John? How is social status like soma to him? In what way are Bernard’s unorthodoxy and dissatisfaction with society more superficial than Helmholtz’s?

5. Why do you think the author chose to have John called “the Savage”? Why does John quote the Shakespeare line about the “brave new world” when he visits the lighting-set factory? What reaction does he have to what he sees there, and why?

6. What signs of racism can be seen in this society? What qualities do the people of this society seem to associate dark skin with? Ironically, what Shakespeare character does John seem to identify with, and why?

7. Describe John’s complex reaction to Lenina. Why is she confused about his feelings? Why is he afraid that she will “cease to be something he could feel himself unworthy of”?  How does his behavior toward her affect her, and how does she seem to feel about him?  What Shakespeare characters are they similar to, and why?  What signs are there that Lenina is changing?

8. What symbolic meaning might zippers have in the novel? What do you think is the origin of the “T” symbol, and what symbolic meaning might it have?

9. What is revealed about Mustapha Mond in the passage about the research paper he decides to censor?

10. How do John and Helmholtz react to Bernard’s falling status, and how does this make Bernard feel? Describe the nature of his friendship with them. What reaction does Helmholtz have to his own “conflict with Authority”?

11. Describe Helmholtz’s reaction to Shakespeare. What does he admire about his work, and what does he dislike? What do you think he means when he says, “We need some other kind of madness and violence”?

Chapters 13-15

1. After Fanny advises Lenina to go after John aggressively, where does she find the courage to follow her advice? What does this indicate about the character of people in this society? Why do you think the author includes the paragraph that begins “Twenty-two years, eight months, and four days from that moment…”?

2. Describe the philosophical differences regarding romance that cause a conflict between John and Lenina. How does Lenina handle her feelings, and how does John think he should handle his? What does he want to do , and why does he say he would never “kill [lions] out of helicopters”?  Why is Lenina confused about John’s feelings for her—what expectation does she have?  What is John’s reaction to her decision to come on to him so aggressively?  What does the following Shakespeare quote mean?  “Down from the waist they are Centaurs, though women all above.”

3. Describe the Park Lane Hospital for the Dying—what the atmosphere is like, who is sent there, the appearances, attitudes, and behavior of the people there. How is Linda spending her time in the hospital? How does the nurse react to John’s distress, and why?  What does the sentence “not that there were many visitors anyhow: or any reason why there should be many visitors” indicate?  What does the term “second infancy” mean?  What is the group of identical children doing in the hospital—what is the purpose of their visit, and what concerns does the nurse have about how John’s behavior will affect them?

4. What reaction does John have to the groups of identical workers waiting for their soma distribution, and why—what quality of this society is epitomized by them? How is his comparing them to maggots appropriate?

5. What do Miranda’s words come to mean to John (“O brave new world!”), and why does he appeal to the workers not to take the soma? What do the reactions of the Deputy Sub-Bursar and the workers indicate about why his effort is doomed to failure? According to John, in what way are the people of this society “slaves”?  What does it mean to John “to be free and men”?

6. What reaction does Helmholtz have to the scene at the hospital, and why? What is ironic about his and Bernard’s use of expressions like “Ford helps those who help themselves” and “Ford be praised”? Why is the Voice of Reason/Voice of Good Feeling described as speaking “from the depths of a non-existent heart”?  What does the fact that even John and Helmholtz are affected by it say about human nature?  (Their susceptibility reflects one of the major lessons of the novel.)

Chapters 16-18

1. Describe Mustapha Mond. What is ironic about his being a World Controller, and how did he end up in this position? What did he give up in order to become a World Controller, and why?  How does he treat these three “rebels” (John, Helmholtz, and Bernard) that is different from how they expected to be treated?

2. How does Mustapha explain the inability of the people of this society to appreciate high art? What has high art been sacrificed for, and why does it seem like a bad trade?

3. Why is it that a society of Alphas could never succeed? What evidence is there of this?

4. How is science a threat to the stability of this society? Why are technological advances kept to a minimum? What change brought about by Ford instigated the shift away from truth and beauty, and why?

5. In what way is their exile to an island actually a good thing for Bernard and Helmholtz?

6. What explanation does Mustapha Mond give for why the people of this society no longer need to believe in God? How does he explain humankind’s former need for and belief in God?

7. According to John, in what way are the people of this society are being “punished” for their “sins”? How does Mustapha respond to this argument? What arguments does Mustapha give against the value of endurance, self-denial, and chastity?  Why are nobility and heroism outdated?  What is “Violent Passion Surrogate,” and why do the people of this society need it?

8. What is the outcome of John and Mustapha’s discussion—what does Mustapha show John that he actually wants?

9. What is the symbolic significance of John’s chosen home—both its nature and its location? Why is the area so empty of people despite its beauty? What kind of life does he have planned for himself, and why?  Discuss this in detail.

10. What happens to make John kill himself? Explain his decision.

Review Questions for Discussion and Writing

1. In the foreword of Brave New World , Huxley says that if he were to rewrite the book, he would include a third, “sane” form of civilization as a model of his ideals. Compare and contrast the “brave new world” and the “savage” society on the reservations, and discuss what characteristics you think such a sane civilization would have.

2. To what extent has modern society evolved along the lines of the “brave new world”? Discuss examples of characteristics of our society that resemble the characteristics of the future society that Huxley envisioned.

3. Write a short story in which you try to “get into the head” of a character raised in Huxley’s dystopian society. It could be a character like Bernard or Helmholtz whose thoughts, feelings, and experiences lead him to rebel against his society, or it could be a character from that society placed in a different setting, such as a Reservation or even our own society. Show your understanding of the character’s psychology.

4. What values does Huxley seem to be championing in this novel? Critically analyze the text to demonstrate what seem to be Huxley’s judgments about various values and practices described in the novel.

5. How believable is Brave New World ? Discuss those aspects you find believable as well as those that don’t seem realistic. What aspects of human nature and the nature of society suggest that it is possible for a society like that of Brave New World to come into being (e.g. the desire for comfort and pleasure, the fear of pain and suffering, the tendency to go along with the group and obey authority)?

6. Evaluate one of the characters in the novel—Bernard and John probably have the most potential for analysis, but Helmholtz and Mustapha Mond are also possibilities. Discuss the character’s psychology, his evolution/growth over the course of the story, the effect that certain major events have on him, how he compares and contrasts with other characters, how the author intends for the reader to view him, and what themes or lessons he reflects (in either a positive or negative way).

7. Discuss Huxley’s use of both insects and machines as the basis for much of the symbolism and imagery in the novel. How are they appropriate for describing the dystopian society, and what characteristics, ideas, and themes does Huxley convey through this imagery and symbolism? Be sure to refer to specific examples of their use.

8. Discuss the tone (author’s attitude) and mood (attitudes and emotions of the characters) of the novel. Where do they differ, and where are they similar? Analyze diction, syntax, and style for clues.  How does Huxley employ tone and mood to convey the themes and messages of the novel?  What role does irony play?  Again, be sure to refer to specific examples.

9. How would you define true happiness and/or true freedom? What kind of life would one have to live to be considered truly happy and truly free? How does your definition contrast with these ideals as they are realized in the “brave new world”?  Why are we dissatisfied with and disturbed by the “happiness” and “freedom” of the people in this society?

10. Discuss the issue of the importance and dignity of the individual as opposed to the importance of society as a whole. Does the meaning of life reside in the individual or in society? What view do you think Huxley intends to express through the novel—how is the “brave new world” presented in this respect?

11. Discuss the importance of individualism, freedom, and diversity in human society. What does the novel show us about why these things are important?

12. Discuss Huxley’s use of imagery and symbolism in the novel—how does he make use of these elements in relation to the novel’s themes?

13. What does the novel say about what it means to be a human being and to live a truly human life? Is happiness (even more profound happiness) necessarily the highest goal of life?

14. How is social stability and control achieved in the “brave new world”? What methods are used, and what does the novel say about why they are successful? (This will involve discussion of what Huxley is implying about human nature.)

15. Discuss Huxley’s use of style in the novel in relation to the themes and major ideas of the novel. Some suggestions about what to discuss:

• tone and mood (humor, irony, gloominess)
• extended descriptions (e.g. the description of the “hatchery and conditioning centre” on the first page)
• the rapid shifts from thread to thread at the end of Chapter 3
• the way the novel begins (the most important characters aren’t immediately introduced)
• the use and manner of dialogue and conversation in the novel
• point of view (why third person omniscient?)
• use of names
• use of Shakespeare
• capitalization
• onomatopoeia
• sentence structure

PDF version

© 2003-2004 C. Brantley Collins, Jr.

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Scientific papers and artificial intelligence. Brave new world?

Jørgen nexøe.

Institute of Public Health and the Research Unit of General Practice, University of Southern Denmark, Odense C, Denmark

Developed by OpenAI, ChatGPT is a publicly accessible tool that uses GPT (Generative Pre-training Transformer) technology. As a sophisticated chatbot, it can fulfill a wide range of text-based requests, including answering simple questions and completing more advanced tasks such as generating thank you letters and addressing productivity issues. It is even capable of writing entire scholarly essays by breaking a main topic into subtopics and having ChatGPT write each section, it is possible to create an entire article using the tool. It is even possible to write an entire paper in a matter of seconds with minimal input from a researcher [ 1 ]. If this has been done already and a ChatGPT- generated paper has been published in medical science is hard to know for sure. To my knowledge it has, however, not to date been documented to be the case.

There are a wide variety of papers in the field of medical science that potentially could be written or partially generated using artificial intelligence (AI). Some examples of the types of papers that might be produced using AI include:

• Papers that analyze large amounts of data, such as clinical trial data or electronic medical records. AI algorithms can be used to quickly identify patterns and trends in such data sets.
• Papers that summarize the results of multiple studies or meta-analyses. AI algorithms could potentially be used to identify and extract key findings from such studies and to synthesize them into a coherent review.
• Papers that use machine learning techniques to develop predictive models or to identify risk factors.
• Papers that use natural language processing techniques to analyze text-based data, e.g., qualitative research.
• Probably, papers on any other subjects. Limits may be expected to be beyond human imagination.

Overall, the use of AI in medical research is likely to be most useful for tasks that involve the analysis of large amounts of data or the identification of patterns that might be difficult for humans to discern.

However, it is important to note that the use of AI in scientific research is still relatively new, and most papers published in medical journals are likely to be written by humans in the near as well as the more distant future. It is also worth noting that the use of AI in scientific research is generally seen as a tool to assist human researchers, rather than as a replacement for them.

There is some cause for concern about the potential for AI to be used to generate or manipulate scientific papers in the field of medical science, as in any other field. For example, there is a risk that AI-generated papers could contain errors or oversights that could lead to incorrect or misleading conclusions, or that they could be used to spread misinformation. In addition, there is a potential for AI-generated papers to be used to promote biased or misleading conclusions, or to advance the interests of particular groups or individuals.

It is also important to recognize that there are many potential benefits to using AI in medical research. For example, AI can be used to quickly analyze large amounts of data or to identify patterns that might not be easily recognizable to researchers, which could lead to new insights and discoveries.

Overall, members of the scientific society must be aware of the potential concerns and be ready to take steps to ensure the integrity and reliability of scientific research in medical science, regardless of whether it is produced solely by humans or with the help of AI. This could include using multiple sources to verify the accuracy of findings and being transparent about the methods and sources used in research.

It can be challenging for editors of scientific journals to detect papers that have been written or partially generated by AI, as the quality of AI-generated papers can vary widely. Some AI-generated papers may be of high quality and may be difficult to distinguish from those written by humans, while others may contain errors or oversights that are more easily identifiable.

There are a few approaches that editors and reviewers can use to try to identify AI-generated papers. For example, they may look for patterns in the language or style of the paper that are indicative of AI generation, or they may check the paper for inconsistencies or errors that are less common in human-written papers. Also, text generated by AI may be detected by software that uses AI to detect patterns and forecast the most probable word choices that lead to a higher AI detection probability [ 2 ].

In a recent study, abstracts created by ChatGPT were submitted to academic reviewers, who only caught 68% of these fakes [ 3 ]. However, AI detection software performed much better while plagiarism checkers were of almost no use.

The ability to accurately identify AI-generated papers may depend on the sophistication of the ever-developing AI systems and the quality of the resulting output. In general, it is important for editors and reviewers to be vigilant in evaluating the quality and reliability of all scientific papers, regardless of whether they were written by humans or AI.

It may be debated whether AI-generated papers fulfill criteria regarding originality. It may be perceived as, after all, plagiarized from ChatGPT. Some scientific journals have adapted editorial policies that ban text generated from AI, machine learning, or similar algorithmic tools from submission and subsequent publication [ 4 ].

Fighting against this rapid development may be in vain, as has been with most other developing technologies. The most fruitful approach probably is to accept that ChatGPT among other technologies may be used in conjunction with the researchers’ own scientific knowledge as a tool to create new ideas and to decrease the burden of writing and formatting. It could also help scientists publishing in a language that is not their native language. Researchers should critically evaluate the output and use it to inform further research and investigation. As ChatGPT cannot take any responsibilities authorship should not be granted, however credit in an acknowledgement may be appropriate.

ChatGPT and AI are extremely powerful technologies. To some extent, the burden of appropriate use should reside with the users.

Taylor & Francis Clarifies the Responsible use of AI Tools in Academic Content Creation - Taylor & Francis Newsroom (taylorandfrancisgroup.com)

Brave New World? Human Welfare and Paternalistic AI

Theoretical Inquiries in Law, Forthcoming

30 Pages Posted: 30 Jul 2024

Cass R. Sunstein

Harvard Law School; Harvard University - Harvard Kennedy School (HKS)

Date Written: July 29, 2024

“Choice Engines,” powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI) and authorized or required by law, might produce significant increases in human welfare. A key reason is that they can simultaneously (1) preserve autonomy and (2) help consumers to overcome inadequate information and behavioral biases, which can produce internalities, understood as costs that people impose on their future selves. Importantly, AI-powered Choice Engines might also take account of externalities, and they might nudge or require consumers to do so as well. Different consumers care about different things, of course, which is a reason to insist on a high degree of freedom of choice, even in the presence of internalities and externalities. Nonetheless, AI-powered Choice Engines might show behavioral biases, perhaps the same ones that human beings are known to show, perhaps others that have not been named yet, or perhaps new ones, not shown by human beings, that cannot be anticipated. It is also important to emphasize that AI-powered Choice Engines might be enlisted by insufficiently informed or self-interested actors, who might exploit inadequate information or behavioral biases, and thus reduce consumer welfare. AI-powered Choice Engines might also be deceptive or manipulative, and legal safeguards are necessary to reduce the relevant risks.

Keywords: paternalism, algorithm, generative AI, internalities, externalities, manipulation

Suggested Citation: Suggested Citation

Cass R. Sunstein (Contact Author)

Harvard law school ( email ).

1575 Massachusetts Ave Areeda Hall 225 Cambridge, MA 02138 United States 617-496-2291 (Phone)

Harvard University - Harvard Kennedy School (HKS) ( email )

79 John F. Kennedy Street Cambridge, MA 02138 United States

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