English Lesson 120

"Is this novel a defense of liberty?"

In my opinion, Phillip Dru Administrator is not a defense of liberty at all. Throughout the book, I was very disgusted with the tyrannical, abominable behavior of Phillip.I think he was a manipulative, conniving man, who was only out to achieve selfish means. Ultimately, he craved all the control of the government, so he could maneuver it however he wished. The tactics he employed for this goal were clever and impressive, truth be told. But he didn't have the good of the people in mind, whatsoever, as he fervently claimed to. Instead, it was his own betterment that he was after. He wrenched the power from Selwyn, in the name of rescuing the United States. Phillip Dru was head of the committees, that based their accusations on a single dictograph recording!

An assistant had caught Senator Selwyn and Thor in a office discussion, wherein Selwyn revealed his part in the presidential election of James Rockland(Thor was the richest man in America) From this mild, harmless conversation, a reporter had gone crazy and caused public outrage at the senator. This, in turn had led to a good many Americans being thirsty for revenge, and the removal of the Senator. Phillip faked calmness, urging everyone to remain steady and reasonable, despite their apparent anger. Then he decides to become the head of a committee against Selwyn, and the commander of troops for a civil war. He leads a fiery rebellion, protesting the overpowering of the rich society.

Phillip was a passionate advocate for economic equality and an avid follower of Progressivism. With his friend, Gloria, he worked to "defend" his country against the schemes of the wealthy. In so doing this, his constant aim was the assistance of the poor. Yet he was too arrogant and condescending to even work and live among them first hand. He tried and I think failed miserably in sugarcoating the real reasons for this decision. He said that he was after the improvement of the majority, and not to impact individual people. My translation: he was superior over the poor, and didn't dare stoop to such impoverished living conditions.

This novel I personally believe is a perfect illustration of what usually happens, when someone tries to stop a dictator. In the midst of accomplishing what they presume right, they often transform into the very object of their hatred. I think this is exactly what takes place with Phillip. He doesn't think it's in the U.S.'s best interest to be ruled by Rockland, who was instated by Selwyn. But, of course, this meant that he would take the place of absolutist. Then he would be ruling and overtaking the government with his opinions and ideas for doing things. This was overall Phillip's plan, to personate his proposals and turn the country upside down for his benefit.

This is the desire of most men in politics, whether or not they are forthright about their intentions or pacify them. Phillip Dru rules with a corrupt nature, instating his policies with a iron will of determination and zeal. He institutes a system of total fascism, a pyramid where he sat atop oppressively.