The Quest for Wisdom Essay Example

wisdom.

During the Renaissance and Enlightenment, science held a different significance compared to the present time depicted by Huxley. The author portrays a stark outcome of this historical evolution; where physical pleasure becomes paramount at the expense of all other meaningful goals, all while science reigns supreme. In this future era (the 26th century), individuals are artificially produced in massive factories, according to a carefully devised five-tier system that ensures adequate population for each social class and smooth functioning of society.

Within this society, wisdom resides only in a select few at the system's apex who serve as planners and overseers. The majority of the population live thoughtlessly, resorting to soma drug should they experience any contemplation. The savage community dwells beyond the civilization limits, remaining in their primitive state. Upon infiltrating the civilized world, John the Savage witnesses its inhumanity and directly confronts the World Controller in protest.

Controller calmly explains in Huxley's 1932 book (p. 264) that stability comes at a cost. The logical progression of science has led to the belief that human instincts lead to instability and violence, so instead, a mechanized and inhumane approach has been chosen. In contrast, Socrates aimed for spiritual wisdom and dismissed materialism as futile and numbing. Plato's portrayal of Socrates' teachings in The Last Days of Socrates is deeply insightful.

In Plato's narrative, Socrates' final moments are recounted where he was condemned to death on charges of corrupting the youth in Athens. Nevertheless, Socrates remains steadfast and composed while providing his gathered friends with invaluable insights. His eloquence allows him to debate with his prosecutors and showcase his composure, leading up to his renowned declaration that "a

good man cannot be harmed, either in life or after death" (Plato 2003, p.70).

The key observation is that Socrates is prepared for death, whereas the inhabitants of Brave New World resist death by desperately holding on to material senses. In their final moments, they are mentally dismantled in insane asylums and then put to sleep with drugs. To Socrates, material knowledge functions merely as a tool for recollection. It allows us to recall the genuine knowledge that our souls possessed prior to birth. If we achieve some semblance of recollection, we are ready to depart this world, abandoning the flawed mortal coil and reclaiming the pristine wisdom of our souls.

Although their emphases differ, the core message in both books is the same. Brave New World portrays the terrifying victory of material knowledge, while Plato's writings present the magnificent argument opposing materialism and advocating for spiritual wisdom. Socrates' reasoning renders Plato's approach superior since it is more challenging to portray truth than to expose falsehoods.