A Perfect Community?

If you are reading closely, you have probably noticed a distinct shift in the mood of the novel. Before the community seemed calm and nice, if a bit odd. Now that strangeness is taking on a definitively eerie feeling. The Receiver of Memory's secretary seems friendly, but a bit too friendly--and those doors that click open seem to be hiding more than the Receiver's office. And that last rule that Jonas was given ... how can he trust anyone anymore?

What is the strangest new detail we have learned about Jonas's community?

Controlling "Stirrings"

a simple solution?

What if it were that easy--you could take a pill and all of the frustrations and anxieties about sexuality would disappear? Do you think everyone age 11 - 18 should be required to take such a pill? What problems could it solve? I anticipate that many of you will not like this idea, but what is a good argument against banning hormones until individuals have matured and learned to control themselves better? Explain your opinion carefully.

You're Being Watched ...

the ubiquitous eye of the NYPD

... does this bother you? Many of you seemed grateful to be watched closely by security cameras. Yet you were alarmed at Jonas's inability to even swipe an apple without being subjected to (anonymous?) punishment in front of his entire community. What is it about the level of security in Jonas's society that is too much? Where do you draw the line between safety and privacy? Be specific using examples from both our world and Jonas's.