Elena Hoicka: What makes a baby laugh?

The Chrysalids is set in a future society in Labrador, Canada, where a harsh form of Christianity dominates and any genetic deviations are seen as blasphemies. The story follows David Strorm and his friends, who possess telepathic abilities, as they navigate the dangers of their society and ultimately seek refuge in a more advanced and tolerant community in Sealand. The novel delves into themes of morality, the fear of the unknown, and the complexities of utopian and dystopian societies.

In 'Lord of the Flies', William Golding tells the story of a group of British schoolboys who are stranded on a deserted island after their plane crashes. The novel follows their attempts to govern themselves and the gradual descent into chaos and savagery. The story is an allegory that explores themes of human nature, morality, leadership, and the fragility of civilization. Key characters include Ralph, who represents order and democracy; Jack, who symbolizes power and violence; and Piggy, the voice of reason. The novel highlights the tension between the desire for civilization and the primal savagery that lies beneath the surface of human society.

Published in 1948, 'Walden Two' is a utopian novel written by B.F. Skinner. The story follows Professor Burris and two young men who visit a community called Walden Two, founded by T.E. Frazier. This community operates on principles of behavioral modification, where members are conditioned from an early age to be productive and happy. The community is egalitarian, with a minimal workday, no wages, and a focus on education, entertainment, and communal living. The novel discusses various intellectual topics such as behavioral modification, political ethics, and the common good, highlighting the experimental and adaptive nature of the community's social and economic structures.