Week of 2/19: It is what it is

One of the basic elements that the plot of Brave New World rests on is the caste system. In the novel, people are conditioned to believe that their caste is the best, regardless of whether they are Alpha or Epsilon. There is no movement between castes--no possibility of movement--but people are made to be happy with where they are in life.

Most people would agree that there are class divisions in American society today. One of the main differences between America 2007 and BNW 632 A.F. is that in America there is at least the belief that people can change their social class-whether that is by hard work, or luck, or some other circumstance.

In BNW they believe their caste system leads to social stability. In America, there is certainly social conflict and tension related to our class system.

Would it be better for society--and for individual people--if people just happily accepted their lot in life? Would it help to ease tension and conflict in our society? Would it help to eliminate some of the stress of modern life in America? Would these be good things?

EXPLAIN why you think as you do.