Equality's Motivation In Anthem

Equality is a major factor in the development of society because it teaches the members to value identity. However, a totalitarian society, like the one portrayed in Anthem, diminishes the idea of individuality, personality and pride. The government dominates every aspect of Equality 7-2521’s life, in attempts to contain his wild mind. Equality’s ambitions are to become a scientist; this ambition prompted him to discover an electric light source, similar to the light bulb. After being forced into an undesired occupation by authority, Equality lacks the ability to be himself. Through Equality’s character, the author shows the reader the effect a society can have on one’s individuality and overall motivation.
Equality’s motivation is to be recognized
His motivation is justified because finally for the first time he wants to feel accomplished. He says, “And in our heart- strange are the ways of evil!- in our heart there is the first peace we have known in twenty years (37)” after explaining all he had stolen for his experiment. When the Council sets boundaries, Equality crosses them because his wild mind needs to invent. Equality has an inherent right to want to be recognized and to be known as “somebody.” He believes that his only way to accomplish this is by presenting his invention to the Scholars with the argument that it is for the prosperity of his brothers. Considering that Equality has been ignored all his life, recognition for the first time shows the reader the different consequences of his
On the one hand, people would provide constructive criticism about others’ inventions and contribute to their ideas which would create a sense of brotherhood and confidence. Contrary to this outcome, would be that inventions are only dependent on others’ compliments and prideful citizens will boast. When Equality presented the light bulb to the Council, he said, “Give no thought to us, for we are nothing, but listen to our words, for we bring you a gift such as has never been brought to men. Listen to us, for we hold the future of mankind in our hands (70).” Equality claims that his invention would better the condition of the society and could replace the use of candles. He has good intentions of helping the advancement of science and is confident that his invention is excellent. Towards the end of the book, he says, “I honor men with my love. But honor is a thing to be earned (96).” After being alienated completely from the society, Equality is saying that he will not honor those who do not prove they should be honored.
Equality attempted to prove his value to the Scholars but since he was simply a street sweeper, his chances of justifying his value disappeared. In a world with this attitude people have to prove their worth through their