Examples Of Conformity In Fahrenheit 451

The Asch Conformity Experiments were conducted to measure conformity in a randomized group of people. These experiments uncovered that at least 75% of participants went along with the rest of the group at least one time, even if the answer was wrong. Ray Bradbury’s novel, Fahrenheit 451, is a story about a dystopian society. In this society firemen do not save burning buildings, instead they are the ones who burn books and houses. This is in order to promote the conformity of citizens. The novel follows Guy Montag, a fireman who begins to question the norms in his society. Overall, the novel highlights dystopian topics such as censorship, conformity, and lack of intimacy and meaningful human connection. These topics come up causing many issues throughout

Based on current events, Bradbury’s fear of censorship, conformity, and lack of intimacy and meaningful human connections poses a real threat to our society due to increased censorship of diverse viewpoints and increase in loneliness. Bradbury’s fear of censorship expressed in Fahrenheit 451 poses a threat to our society, shown through the increased demand to censor books. Throughout Fahrenheit 451, Montag questions the purpose of his job as a fireman, burning books every day. The fire captain, Beatty notices this and provides advice. He explains that, “If you don't want a man politically unhappy, don't give him two sides to a question to worry him; give him one, Better yet give him none” (p64). This shows us an example of the extensive censorship in their society. Explaining how in their society they limit the amount of perspectives provided to the public. Further conveying their belief that giving people limited opinions and perspectives is the way to prevent unhappiness and debate. This does not allow people to properly form opinions and severely limits the knowledge of the public.