Short Answer 
“Harrison Bergeron” by Kurt Vonnegut critiques the absurdity of enforced equality through satire, illustrating a society where physical and intellectual handicaps suppress individuality. The story highlights the consequences of this suppression, emphasizing that true societal strength lies in celebrating diversity rather than pursuing absolute sameness.
Step 1: Understanding Satire in “Harrison Bergeron”
Kurt Vonnegut’s short story “Harrison Bergeron” serves as a satirical critique of American society’s obsession with absolute equality. By depicting a world where everyone is forced to be equal in every aspect, Vonnegut highlights the absurdity of such enforced equality. This critique is articulated through humorous exaggeration, as it reflects the extreme measures taken to ensure that no one excels or stands out in any way.
Step 2: Key Features of Forced Equality
The story illustrates several key features of a society striving for enforced normalcy and equality. In this world, elements include:
- Individuals are subjected to physical and intellectual handicaps to suppress their capabilities.
- Government amendments, like the 211th, 212th, and 213th Amendments, ensure constant enforcement of equality.
- This leads to a lack of diversity in talents and abilities, resulting in a mundane and uninspired society.
Step 3: The Consequences of Suppression
Vonnegut warns that in the pursuit of absolute equality, society must suppress individual creativity and talent. He illustrates that:
- People possess various levels of intelligence and capability; it is impractical to impose handicaps on those with superior abilities.
- This suppression leads to a homogenous society where innovation and progress are stifled.
- Ultimately, the story suggests that valuing individual differences contributes more to societal strength than forced equality ever could.