Coase-Sandor Working Paper Series in Law and Economics
Publication Date
1999
Publication Title
Law & Economics Working Papers
Abstract
Orwell's novel Nineteen Eighty-Four and Huxley's novel Brave New World have often been thought prophetic commentaries on economic, political, and social matters. I argue, with particular reference to the supposed applicability of these novels to issues of technology and privacy, that the novels are best understood as literary works of art, rather than as social science or commentary, and that when so viewed Orwell's novel in particular reflects a dissatisfaction with everyday life and a nostalgia for Romantic values.
Number
89
Recommended Citation
Richard A. Posner, "Orwell versus Huxley: Economics, Technology, Privacy, and Satire" (John M. Olin Program in Law and Economics Working Paper No. 89, 1999).
Additional Information
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