Title: In 1984, what do these 3 slogans mean: War is Peace, Freedom is Slavery, and Ignorance is Strength?  - eNotes.com
Headings: In
1984
, what do these 3 slogans mean: War is Peace, Freedom is Slavery, and Ignorance is Strength?

1984
In 1984, what do these 3 slogans mean: War is Peace, Freedom is Slavery, and Ignorance is Strength?
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mrs-campbell
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At first glance, these slogans seem to be contradictory and illogical. And, they pretty much are, but the society in 1984 is run by a group of people that have pretty much brainwashed or intimidated the entire population into believing whatever sort of nonsense they promote. So, these three slogans are lived by and sworn by, and the essence of everything that the Party represents. Each of these three slogans have double meanings--one for the Party and one for the people as a whole. First of all, let's look as War is Peace. In their society, keeping the masses believing that constant war is being waged is actually a way of maintaining peace. War elicits great patriotism and devotion to country; it also promotes sacrifice and giving to the community over oneself. So, if there is constant war, the people are constantly giving, sacrificing, and pledging devotion to their government. This keeps the people in check and in control, and hence, peaceful.