Since time immemorial, inequality has been the root cause of conflict and distress in society. It is beyond human control, that everyone is born into this world being different and unique, in terms of gender, race, ability and economic status. Even though the struggle for equal rights and opportunities is necessary, it is highly impossible to achieve a perfect utopian society where everyone is equal and content. Nature itself goes against this concept. Kurt Vonnegut’s compelling short story “Harrison Bergeron” depicts a dystopian society where everyone is forced to be equal on all aspects. His satirical approach is intriguing as well as thought-provoking and teaches us that everything in society, including equality has its limits, which when breached may ultimately lead to destructive consequences.

Kurt Vonnegut begins his captivating story by taking us ahead in time, specifically in the year 2081. The society depicted is perfect in all its entirety and everyone is equal, not only in the eyes of God and that of the law, but also in every possible way (Vonnegut 234). However, as the story progresses, the author reveals the consequences of having too much of something. This futuristic society clearly portrays how too much equality results in undesirable consequences such as oppression. Moreover, we also see that no matter how much effort is put in, complete equality can never truly be achieved.