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Orwell's 1984 - Fake News and the destruction of language

Oct 28, 2025
Exploring Orwell's 1984 reveals how language can control thought. Newspeak aims to limit expression, making rebellion unthinkable. The rise in 1984's sales reflects modern concerns about linguistic manipulation. The term 'fake news' is dissected as a tool to delegitimize dissent. Alternative facts undermine objective reality, creating confusion in public discourse. Reductive labels bypass reason and inflame emotions, echoing the themes of Newspeak. Ultimately, the discussion warns that tyranny begins with the degradation of language.
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INSIGHT

Language Shapes Thought

  • Language shapes thought, not just expresses it.
  • Corrupting language reduces imagination and critical thinking, making manipulation easier.
INSIGHT

Erasing Words To Erase Rebellion

  • Newspeak deliberately removes words to make dissent inexpressible.
  • If people lack words, rebellion becomes literally unthinkable.
INSIGHT

Modern Parallels To Newspeak

  • Modern political language shows similar degradation and control.
  • Weaponized terms corrode trust and let authority declare reality.
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