Equality In Vonnegut's Harrison Bergeron

In "Harrison Bergeron," Vonnegut proposes that overall equality is not a striving idea, as many believe, but a false goal that risks both execution and results. To obtain physical and mental equality among all Americans, the government in the story of Vonnegut tortures its citizens. Angels must wear ugly masks or despise themselves, intelligent people must listen to the obstructive noise that hinders their ability to think, and the brave and powerful must wear the weight around his neck. They are at every hour of the day. Emphasis requires equality to enter into citizens who begin to mute themselves or hide their unique features. Some behave this way because they have accomplished the goal of the government and others they're fear of the government