The Ways We Lie Essay

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The types of lies expressed in the article, “The Ways We Lie,” by Stephanie Erickson prevail in Orwell’s novel, 1984, through the dystopian government of Oceania in order to constitute fear and preserve overall domination within the society.
To begin, Erickson’s article “The Ways We Lie” expresses groupthink which happens as a result of people wanting to maintain conformity within a group, even though everyone may not agree on the outcome. In 1984, Oceania establishes a continuous war with Eurasia and allies itself with Eastasia, until an abrupt announcement changes the enemy to Eastasia. Following the news, the citizens must truly believe “Oceania was at war with Eastasia: Oceania had always been at war with Eastasia” (Orwell 182). All of the people must conform to believe what Big Brother wants them to, otherwise, their behavior results in vaporization. Therefore, using vaporization as a fear tactic, and the strategy of groupthink, the government has the ability to maintain total control over the people. Moreover, because of groupthink, …show more content…
In 1984 the people who make up the working class are also known as the proles. Stereotyped as dumb to the inner party members, the proles seem like irrelevant figures in society. Therefore, when Winston meets Mr. Charrington, a prole, he automatically trusts him. However, Winston’s naive and trusting attitude towards Charrington backfires when he realizes “he was looking, with knowledge, at a member of the Thought Police” (Orwell 224). As a member of the Thought Police, Charrington knows about Winston and Julia’s rebellious deeds, but acts friendly toward them. Due to the stereotyping and Winston’s disobedient lifestyle, he underestimates the Proles, allowing for an easy capture. In conclusion, the government takes advantage of such stereotypes in order to control and spy on their
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