In this episode of Banned Camp, Jennifer and Dan tackle Chapter 20 of 1984 by George Orwell—a banned book that never stops feeling relevant. As Winston faces the ultimate gaslighting, O’Brien insists reality itself only exists because the Party says so.

Orwell’s dystopian nightmare shows how censorship and propaganda can warp truth until nothing feels solid. Along the way, Dan and Jennifer dig into solipsism, simulation theory, and why repetition is the Party’s greatest weapon.

Expect dark humor, uncomfortable parallels, and a reminder that reading banned books might be the best way to stay sane.

Things to Listen For:

• The Party’s hilarious (and terrifying) logic about the laws of nature
• Why repetition is the ultimate brainwashing tool
• Modern parallels to censorship and collective delusion
• Aabolishing the orgasm is peak dystopia

Banworthy to Bingeworthy:
This week, we recommend Good News for Lefties, the podcast that reminds you democracy still has a fighting chance, and Here’s the Scoop, MSNBC’s daily look at politics, censorship, and the stories behind the headlines.

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Disclaimer:
Banned Camp features readings and discussions of 1984 by George Orwell for the purposes of criticism, commentary, education, and entertainment, in accordance with fair use guidelines. Some passages may be lightly abridged for pacing, but we remain true to Orwell’s intent. To experience the full work, purchase a copy here. We are not affiliated with Orwell’s estate or publisher.

Topics We Discussed:

• The Party’s reality distortion machine
• Solipsism and simulation theory
• Repetition as brainwashing
• Why dystopias want to abolish joy
• The dark power of propaganda