John Gutman, retired sociology lecturer, Hunter College

What makes a society endure or collapse? Explore this question through four influential works: Animal Farm, Lord of the Flies, 1984, and Brave New World. Examine how essential institutions — government, law, education, and social norms — shape the stability and character of imagined societies. Consider how the presence, absence, or distortion of these structures influences each society’s ability to survive. Exchange perspectives and reflect on enduring questions about the forces that sustain — or undermine — civilization.

3 Sessions

• September 22: Animal Farm & Lord of the Flies
• October 20: 1984
• November 17: Brave New World

Tuesday, September 22 – November 17, 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Register online: Society, Institutions, and Human Nature in Classic Literature or call us at 732-224-2315.