Considering both the “Brave New World” and “Amusing Ourselves to Death,” I see obvious similarities between the impossible worlds represented in these two works. While Huxley’s novel shows a future society based on satisfaction and simple entertainment, Postman’s analysis highlights the dangers of a culture obsessed with unfocused joy and insignificance. Both stories are critical stories, alerting us about the dangers of giving in to the draw of immediate joy and distraction.
In “Brave New World,” Huxley paints a relaxing picture of a world where individuality is ignored in for in line and excess. Citizens in this society are kept pacified by a constant watch of superficial benefits, making them passive and compliant. Similarly, Postman’s analysis of contemporary culture in “Amusing Ourselves to Death” shows how the growth of media for entertainment has resulted in a society that is more preoccupied with enjoyment than with serious participation and critical thinking. The similarities between these two works are obvious, serving as an alarming reminder of the dangers when we give up control of our minds to the draw of small distractions. As we navigate an increasingly captured and entertainment-saturated world, it becomes critical to pay attention to warnings of these creative works and look for a balance of joy and learning.