Community Organization Principles

In Lois Lowry's novel, "The Giver," readers are transported to a meticulously orchestrated society where uniformity is the cornerstone of existence. This fictional community, governed by the enigmatic Community of Elders, has eradicated individual choice and personal freedom to maintain order and harmony. Jonas, the narrative's main protagonist, initially perceives his world as an idyllic haven, free from conflict or complexity. However, his appointment as the "Receiver of Memories" during the pivotal Ceremony of Twelve shatters this illusion, unveiling the community's reliance on the principle of 'sameness' to control its citizens.

This essay explores how this society sacrifices individuality and freedom to achieve its vision of stability, illustrating the costs and implications of such a system.

The Illusion of Harmony

This society's seemingly flawless operation hinges on its removal of personal choices, with the Community of Elders assuming the role of decision-makers for all. This governing body functions much like a city council, devising and enforcing rules that dictate every aspect of daily life. On page 122, Lowry vividly illustrates the extent of this control through the absence of colors—a decision made long ago by the council to simplify life by eliminating choices related to color. This example underscores the community's commitment to 'sameness,' where the eradication of diversity and options prevents disruptions and conflicts. The motif of choice deprivation is a recurring theme throughout the novel, highlighting the trade-off between societal order and individual freedom.

Conformity Through Rituals

The community's strict adherence to rules is exemplified by the practice of mandatory dream sharing. This ritual, established by the Community of Elders, requires individuals to recount their dreams to family members, ensuring transparency and control over subconscious desires. In one significant instance, Jonas shares a rare dream in which he experiences feelings of affection and desire for Fiona, a girl he admires (Lowry 34). This revelation leads to the administration of a daily pill to suppress his "stirrings," or emergent sexual feelings (Lowry 35). This practice highlights how the community suppresses natural human instincts to maintain conformity and prevent the emergence of individual desires that could disrupt societal balance.

The Role of Ceremonies

From birth to the age of twelve, each child in the community participates in a series of ceremonies marking developmental milestones. These rituals serve as mechanisms to reinforce societal norms and suppress individuality. For instance, at the ceremony of nine, children receive bicycles, symbolizing their growing independence, yet this newfound freedom is tightly regulated. The most significant of these events is the Ceremony of Twelve, where individuals are assigned lifelong occupations by the Community of Elders, eliminating personal choice in career paths. These ceremonies not only facilitate societal order by removing individual decisions but also promote the notion of 'sameness' by providing each child with identical opportunities and resources. This structured approach to life ensures that everyone conforms to predefined roles, minimizing the potential for discord.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Lois Lowry's "The Giver" presents a thought-provoking exploration of a society that prioritizes stability and order over individuality and freedom. Through the elimination of personal choice, enforced conformity, and ritualized ceremonies, the community maintains a superficial harmony at the cost of genuine human experience. Jonas's journey from naïveté to enlightenment serves as a powerful critique of the dangers inherent in such a system, ultimately questioning the ethical implications of sacrificing personal freedom for societal control. By examining the intricate balance between order and individuality, Lowry's novel invites readers to reflect on the value of human diversity and the importance of preserving the right to choose.

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