To navigate the balance between authority and autonomy is a challenge. In a society where the fate of millions lies in the hands of one specified group, discontentedness will inevitably emerge as citizens question the established system. Ray Bradbury highlights the dangers of a society where intellectual thoughts are discouraged, and conformity is law. Bradbury's dystopian novel, "Fahrenheit 451," illustrates society under the suffocating grip of government control where all literature is set to be demolished by “firemen.” Readers follow the protagonist firefighter, Guy Montang, through a journey of self reflection and seeking freedom from the government which he is a servant to. Montang’s self-discovery encourages readers to reflect on the …show more content…
As well as prioritize compassion, education, and truth in order to create sturdy foundations that promote human thriving. Given too much power, the government has opportunities to be corrupt, yet with too little power, chaos is sure to follow. The government is the backbone to society, therefore, it must find the delicate balance between efficiency and empathy, responsible for nurturing a stable and thriving society. To begin with, compassion is essential and should be prioritized by a governing body in order to foster a society with fulfilled and connected citizens. A falter in the governing system can be represented by a friend of Mildred’s, “I’ve had two children by Cesarean section. No use going through all that agony for a baby. The world must reproduce, you know, the race must go on. Besides, they sometimes look just like you, and that’s nice.” (Bradbury 110) To explain, Mildred and her friends are gathered in the TV room speaking to Montang. One of her friends brings up the discussion of children to which another explains the robotic, emotionless, process in which she brought her children into the world. The significant quote offers perspective on the importance of compassion