Short Answer 
In “Harrison Bergeron,” characters are forced to limit their intelligence as a means of enforced equality, which leads to absurd measures like handicaps that suppress individual abilities. This commentary critiques the dangers of sacrificing individuality and creativity for the sake of absolute equality.
Step 1: Understand the Context
In the book “Harrison Bergeron” by Kurt Vonnegut, the society depicted is one where everyone is mandated to be equal in every aspect, including intelligence. This means that individuals who possess any form of superior intelligence are subjected to oppressive measures to conform to societal standards.
Step 2: Analyze the Role of Handicaps
The government implements handicaps to ensure equality among its citizens. These handicaps vary in nature and purpose, but they serve a singular goal: to suppress any advantage or superior ability. Some examples include:
- Physical weights to hinder movement.
- Masks to hide beauty and appeal.
- Noise-making devices to disrupt thinking.
Step 3: Recognize the Absurdity of Equality
The measures taken to achieve this enforced equality are not only extreme but also absurd. The idea that intelligence‚ÄöAia quality that typically enhances human experience‚ÄöAimust be diminished leads to a society where individuality and creativity are sacrificed. This critique serves as a warning about the dangers of enforcing absolute equality at the cost of personal freedoms.