The first chapter of Walden Two illustrates the conflict Rogers and Jamnik have with contemporary society. This is the world that is external to and removed from the utopia of Walden Two. Because of their lack of fulfillment and disappointment with contemporary society, they seek out their former professor to guide them to some resolution. When Rogers tells Professor Burris about an article on utopia from one of his former students, T. E. Frazier, a series of events is set in motion that leads Rogers, Jamnik, Burris, and Augustine Castle to the utopia known as Walden Two.
We explore the utopia of Walden Two from the perspective of its protagonist and narrator, Professor Burris. While Burris is initially skeptical, he is also unfulfilled and dissatisfied with his current occupation in life. Therefore, Burris is not a truly reliable narrator. While he is at Walden Two, he becomes increasingly attracted to the possibilities of a true science of behavior, including the design of personality, talents, and other abilities. The potential for such a science to rob human beings of dignity and individuality is great. Because he is unhappy with his own life, BurrisÆ attraction for such a science remains suspect.
The self-confidence and arrogance expressed by Frazier and his argumentative nature actually add to the readerÆs ability to judge Walden Two in a more critical manner. This is because FrazierÆs arrogance, smug demeanor, and argumentative nature make him appear as sanctimonious and somewhat bordering on the ômad scientistö or Hitler mode of human behavior. Because of this, we are more inclined to look for errors in his logic or views of conditioning. Augustine Castle does not fail to do so either, when he inquires of Frazier, ôWhat about the dignity and integrity of the individual?...and what about personal freedom and responsibility?ö (Skinner 227).
There are some principles set forth by Henry David Thoreau ...