ORWELLIAN Meaning and
Definition
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Orwellian is an adjective derived from the name of the renowned British author George Orwell, most notable for his works such as "1984" and "Animal Farm." It is used to describe a situation, policy, or society that exhibits characteristics reminiscent of or similar to the dystopian themes portrayed in Orwell's novels.
The term "Orwellian" typically denotes a state of totalitarian control, surveillance, manipulation, and propaganda employed by a government or authority to maintain power and suppress individual freedom and independent thought. It describes a condition where truth is distorted, facts are manipulated, and dissent is squashed, typically through extensive surveillance and censorship.
Furthermore, an Orwellian society is characterized by the erosion of privacy, with citizens often living under constant surveillance by the government or other powerful entities. Propaganda and misinformation play a significant role in shaping public opinion, leading to a society that is easily manipulated and controlled. The concept of "Newspeak," a language created to limit expression and repress thought, is also associated with an Orwellian society.
In popular discourse, the term is often used to criticize governments, institutions, or policies that exhibit authoritarian tendencies, particularly when it comes to controlling information, stifling opposition, and exerting excessive control over people's lives. Thus, the term "Orwellian" has become a powerful metaphor that serves as a warning against the dangers of oppressive regimes and the importance of protecting individual liberties and democratic values.
Common Misspellings for ORWELLIAN
Etymology of ORWELLIAN
The term "Orwellian" is derived from the name of the renowned British author George Orwell. George Orwell, born Eric Arthur Blair, was known for his dystopian novel "Nineteen Eighty-Four" published in 1949. The book depicts a totalitarian society characterized by government surveillance, repression, propaganda, and the manipulation of truth. Over time, the term "Orwellian" has come to represent situations, policies, or practices resembling those depicted in Orwell's novel, especially in terms of government control and manipulation of information.
Similar spelling words for ORWELLIAN
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