1984 The novel by the English writer George Orwell appeared in 1949, and quickly became a work of wide-ranging significance. It depicts the life of Winston Smith in a total surveillance state. His world was divided into three great powers, which were enemies of each other. The protagonist lived in the "English part", the "Landing Field 1″. Through a new language ("Neusprech") the population was suppressed, people were controlled and bugged with constantly running "Televisors". Obscure enemies of the state justified the necessity of a "Ministry of Truth", the omnipresent propaganda permanently brought phrases like "war is peace", "ignorance is strength" and "freedom is slavery" among the citizens. As a young man, the book "1984" had a great impact on me; the very idea of having to live the way Winston Smith had to filled me with unease. In retrospect, I think it is possible that this very book made me receptive to the philosophy of Buddha. Those who follow the Buddha's teachings know (or can figure) that everything is already written, the evolution of our society, personal circumstances and goals, life as a whole. So it is also already determined whether the individual sets out on the journey to "enlightenment" or not, whether he arrives at the destination or not, whether he can "free himself" from all circumstances that "cover" his life or not. In my opinion there would be only one way out of the apocalyptic scenarios of George Orwell, the way of Buddha. A Buddhist worldview shows us the reality behind the scenes, as the connections are true, the gateless gate is finally open to the awakened people. After harsh torture and brainwashing, Winston Smith had internalized the principle of government, he now lived for the doctrine of the state, he even eagerly awaited his own execution. I can recommend every follower of the Buddhist doctrine to read the book "1984" once. What would the historical Buddha have done if he had lived in such a world, if he had been the protagonist of "1984"? Freedom is the right to tell others what they do not want to hear. - George Orwell - English writer - 1903 to 1950 Being in the minority, even in the minority of one, didn't make you crazy. There was truth and there was untruth, and if you clung to the truth, even against the whole world, you were not crazy. - George Orwell - English writer - 1903 to 1950 All propaganda lies, even if someone tells the truth. - George Orwell - English writer - 1903 to 1950 Copyright: https://shaolin-rainer.de (Please also download my app "Buddha-Blog English" from the Apple and Android stores) Please rate us on Apple, Google, or Spotify podcast to help us promote the show