1984 by George Orwell
George Orwell’s “1984” is one of the most powerful dystopian novels ever written. Published in 1949, the book imagines a future world ruled by extreme surveillance, propaganda, and oppressive laws. Even decades later, 1984 is still used to understand political control, censorship, and the loss of human rights.
This blog explains the laws, rules, and government system shown in the book and how they impact the citizens of Oceania.
What is the Book “1984” About?
1984 is set in a superstate called Oceania, ruled by a political party known as The Party and its symbolic leader, Big Brother.
The book follows the life of Winston Smith, an ordinary man who works in the Ministry of Truth and secretly hates the Party.
The world of 1984 is full of:
- Constant surveillance
- Fake news
- Manipulated history
- No personal freedom
- Harsh punishments
Major Laws and Control Systems in “1984”
1. Thoughtcrime
One of the most terrifying laws in the book is Thoughtcrime.
What is it?
Thinking anything against the Party is illegal.
Even if you don’t say it out loud, your thoughts can be judged as a crime.
Who catches Thoughtcrime?
The Thought Police (Thinkpol) constantly monitor facial expressions, behavior, and even dreams.
2. Newspeak – Language as Law
The Party controls people by reducing vocabulary.
Why?
If people don’t have words for freedom or rebellion, they cannot think about it.
Example:
- “Bad” becomes “ungood”
- “Excellent” becomes “plusgood”
Language becomes a tool of control.
3. Surveillance Laws – Big Brother Is Watching You
Everyone in Oceania lives under 24/7 monitoring through:
- Telescreens
- Microphones
- Spies
- Cameras
- Informants
Even children spy on their parents.
This law removes all privacy.
4. Ministry of Truth – Law of Manipulating History
Winston’s job is to rewrite historical records.
Purpose of this system:
- To make the Party always appear correct
- To erase enemies, past mistakes, and truths
- To control the past, present, and future
“Who controls the past controls the future.” – Party slogan
5. No Freedom of Speech
In 1984, speaking against the government = punishment or death.
People must follow:
- Party slogans
- Party beliefs
- Party-approved communication
Freedom of speech does not exist.
6. Law of Fear – Room 101
The worst punishment in 1984 happens in Room 101.
It is a torture chamber where prisoners face their deepest fear.
Goal:
Not just to punish people but to break their spirit completely.
7. Two Minutes Hate
A legally enforced ritual where citizens must show hatred toward the Party’s enemies.
If someone does not participate enthusiastically, they are considered suspicious.
8. The Party Controls Relationships
Even personal relationships are controlled.
- Marriage is allowed only if there is no emotional connection.
- Love is considered dangerous.
- The Party wants loyalty only toward Big Brother.
Themes Connected to Laws in “1984”
✔ Totalitarianism
A government that wants control over every aspect of life.
✔ Loss of Individual Freedom
People cannot think, speak, or love freely.
✔ Manipulation of Truth
Facts are changed to fit political goals.
✔ Psychological Control
People obey out of fear, not loyalty.
Why Is “1984” Still Relevant?
Even today, the book is discussed in relation to:
- Government surveillance
- Fake news and media control
- Data tracking
- Online privacy
- Political propaganda
Orwell’s warnings feel more real in the digital age.