Comparing Collectivism In Anthem And Harrison Bergeron

In America, citizens are granted their own individual rights and freedoms. Therefore, it is difficult to imagine if one's own personal liberty no longer existed due to the fact that their only concern was the betterment of their society. One's self worth was no longer determined from within, but by one's peers. Many believe that the solution to the selfishness which plagues society is Altruism. Both, Anthem, and “Harrison Bergeron” contain many of these collectivist aspects; however, movements similar to this can only prevail when every member of the society fully sacrifices their personal identify and put the groups needs in front of their own. Without a doubt, this idea completely defies human nature due to the fact that humans innately work for their own personal gain. In both the story, Anthem, by Ayn Rand, and “Harrison Bergeron”, by Kurt Vonnegut, there are many similarities in regards to collectivism.

One similarity these stories share is that equality is a key component in an efficient society . As readers are introduced to the “Harrison Bergeron”, they learn that “everyone was finally equal. They weren't only equal before god but also before the law. They were equal every which way. Nobody was better looking than anyone else” (Vonnegut 1). The common belief in Harrison Bergeron's society is that no matter what advantages one is born with, handicaps can be

Both share ideas regarding equality, transgressions and the suppression of uniqueness. One can clearly see that there is an importance in everyone’s individuality and personalities. Also, one can clearly see the flaws of a collectivist society. However do these minute defects outweigh the overall organization and efficiency created by equality? Perhaps unity isn’t so bad for a world drawn apart by borders. Perhaps investing in the common good is the only answer to a society that remains so caught up in its own