In 's
classic novel , the authoritarian government uses telescreens as a way to
closely monitor and spy on the citizens of Oceania. The government utilizes telescreens as a
means of constant surveillance and requires every citizen to have one in their home. A
telescreen is a device that functions as a television, microphone, and surveillance camera.and
the other citizens of Oceania listen to announcements/propaganda and take instructions from the
telescreen. They also have no idea of knowing whether or not government agents are spying on
them at any given moment, which dramatically affects their behavior, disposition, and
personality. Winston makes it a point to appear amicable and content anytime he faces the
telescreen and must pay close attention to what he says in its presence. Orwell created the
telescreen to illustrate how governments could use technology to oppress an entire population
and subject citizens to constant surveillance. Orwell's creation of the telescreen eerily
foreshadows many modern issues regarding internet privacy rights and the government's ability to
monitor citizens for national security purposes as discussed in the 2001 Patriot
Act.
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