BP 2- Yamilet Vasquez

6. How does the dystopian society restrict individual freedoms and autonomy?

In each of these stories, the dystopian societies depicted impose strict control over individuals, severely restricting their freedoms and autonomy in various ways. In  “The Machine Stops” by E.M. Forster, The society is highly centralized around the Machine, which provides for all the needs of its inhabitants. This centralized control limits individual autonomy by dictating every aspect of life, including communication, entertainment, and even physical movement. People are isolated in there individual cells and communicate primarily through the Machine, leading to a lack of genuine human connection and interaction. Another thing is that physical movement outside the confines of the underground society is discouraged or forbidden further restricting individual freedoms and autonomy.

  When it comes to “There Will Come Soft Rains” by Ray Bradbury the absence of human life and the presence of an automated house functioning in isolation illustrate the devastating consequences of technological advancement unchecked by human values and autonomy. The house continues to operate according to its programmed routines, oblivious to the absence of its former inhabitants, highlighting the loss of individual agency and autonomy in the face of technological domination.

  In the other text  “From Beyond” by H.P. Lovecraft, does not depict a society in the traditional sense, it explores the consequences of scientific experimentation and the pursuit of knowledge without regard for ethical boundaries. Crawford Tillinghast’s invention of a machine that allows individuals to perceive beings and dimensions beyond normal perception. However, this experimentation leads to terrifying consequences, including the disappearance of household servants and the unleashing of malevolent entities. Tillinghast’s obsession with breaking down the barriers of reality demonstrates a disregard for the well being and autonomy of others, as well as the potential dangers of unchecked scientific advancement.