Newspeak: Orwell introduces a fictional language called Newspeak as the official language of the totalitarian government in Oceania. Newspeak is a deliberately restricted and simplified language that aims to limit people's ability to express themselves and think critically. By removing certain words, especially those related to freedom and critical thought, the government can control the ideas that citizens can have and prevent any rebellion or dissent.
Doublethink: Orwell uses the term "doublethink" to describe the mental gymnastics and self-deception required to hold contradictory beliefs simultaneously. The government in "1984" uses doublethink to manipulate people's thoughts and emotions. For instance, citizens are encouraged to wholeheartedly believe in the Party's propaganda, while simultaneously acknowledging that it may not be entirely truthful. This constant mental manipulation leads to a culture of conformity and suppresses individuality.
Euphemisms: Orwell highlights the government's use of euphemisms, or in this case, "Newspeak," to distort reality and downplay the harshness of its policies. Terms such as "vaporization" (killing), "rectification" (torture), and "thoughtcrime" (wrongthink) are used to sanitize the government's actions and make them appear less brutal or unethical.
Control of Information: Orwell portrays the government's monopoly over information and its efforts to suppress any alternative sources. The Ministry of Truth is responsible for rewriting historical records, altering facts, and propagating propaganda to maintain the government's narrative. This control of information prevents citizens from knowing the truth and perpetuates the government's power.
Slogans and Propaganda: Orwell depicts a world where slogans and propaganda are inescapable and used to indoctrinate citizens. Slogans like "War is Peace," "Freedom is Slavery," and "Ignorance is Strength" serve as a constant reminder of the Party's ideology and keep citizens in a state of perpetual agreement and obedience.
By using language as a means of control, manipulation, and distortion, Orwell's "1984" warns against the dangers of totalitarian regimes and the erosion of individual thought and freedom in society.