In George Orwell’s book 1984 he talks about the “Obliteration of Self” in Oceania’s Society. We as Americans have the first amendment which entitles us to the freedom of speech, religion, press, petition, and assembly. These five freedoms give American citizens the option to embrace their individuality.

The freedom of speech is the most important of the first amendment. People are able to say almost anything they think about the government, people etc., to some extent. If we were living in an era where the idea of obliteration of self was practiced, any attempt of protest would be punishable by law. In 1984 any attempt to speak out or rebel against the government would result in arrest, torture, and removal from society. People that went against the leadership would be forgotten about and there would be no trace of their existence. In today’s society people can be praised and followed if they speak up on issues of importance. There is no punishment to