Both today's society and 1984's society have a significant similarity that ties them together; they both share the fear of opposing thought. The foundation of 1984 is the destruction of the opposing thought. The ideas and attitudes of Big Brother are the only ones that, legally, are allowed to exist. Countless individuals are persecuted because they try to initiate new ideas into society. Throughout the entire novel, Winston Smith's struggle with "illegal" thoughts is developed. He is ultimately persecuted for his thoughts because they differ from that of Big Brother.
             Similarly, in today's society, we frequently persecute people because of their beliefs. Religious conflicts exist, ideological conflicts, and other conflicts that come from differences in way of life. Current religious conflicts include those that are occurring in the Middle East, while current ideological conflicts are mostly between communism and capitalism. Undoubtedly the most inspiring religious and ideological conflicts for George Orwell were those of the Nazi Party in Germany during the nineteen thirties and early forties. 1984 is a recreation of the fascist movement overtaking much of Europe at that time. Although 1984 takes some aspects to the extreme, it can be a valid account of the conditions in Europe for a span of fifteen years.
             Orwell did not create the theme 1984 by himself; society at his time created it. He simply predicted what the outcome would be if another fascist party took control and exacted their power. Both current society's and the 1984 society's fear of opposing thought is an aspect of life that must be conquered in order that all individuals can live a healthy and meaningful life. Contrasting thoughts are the factors that keep life worth living.
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