Could a Gilead-like Society Happen in the USA?

Could something like The Handmaid's Tale happen in a country where abortion is illegal, where people are limiting access to birth control, where there are attempts to ban gay marriage, divorce, and where the notion that women's roles are confined to domestic duties and childbirth persist?

No.

Despite certain extremist sections of the US Republican Party, particularly those pandering to Evangelical Christians, pushing the country towards such conditions, the likelihood of a full-fledged Gilead emerging is slim. The veneration of a specific brand of Christianity, subjugation of women, governmental interference in women's bodily autonomy, the demand for the viability of Creationism in science education, and the banning of certain books are part of their agenda. The subjugation and demonization of non-cisgendered and non-heterosexual individuals, and the spread of extremist right-wing politics have brought talk of dictatorships and subversion of the Constitution to the forefront.

However, the Universe Must Converge

Should these extreme factions gain power and successfully implement all these policies, the only remaining factor needed would be a biological disaster that makes the vast majority of women unable to conceive. This last point is the sole reason why a full-blown The Handmaid's Tale scenario is improbable.

Possible but Unlikely

While it's possible, the likelihood of such a society arising in the USA is considered unlikely. This train of thought seems more about instilling fear in people about highly improbable scenarios rather than addressing real problems. Why the creators of The Handmaid's Tale want readers to be scared is a question left unanswered.

Recent Concerns in Texas

Recent events in Texas, such as contentious debates over voting rights and critical race theory, highlight the ongoing concerns. The state's hb3 bill banning abortion further underscores the intensity of these discussions.

Theoretical Framings of Gilead

The idea of a Gilead-like society in the USA is a topic that has garnered significant attention from various commentators, authors, and scholars, particularly in discussions surrounding women's rights, reproductive health, and authoritarianism. Here are some key points from their discussions:

1. Margaret Atwood

The author of The Handmaid's Tale has often discussed how the novel was inspired by real historical events and societal trends. She emphasizes that the story is a cautionary tale rather than a prediction, suggesting that elements of Gilead could emerge if societal norms regress.

2. Feminist Scholars

Many feminist theorists and activists argue that the restrictions on women's rights and autonomy observed in various political climates could lead to scenarios reminiscent of Gilead. They often draw parallels between contemporary debates over reproductive rights and the oppressive structures depicted in the novel.

3. Political Analysts

Some political commentators and analysts have expressed concerns about the rise of authoritarianism and the potential for a backlash against progressive social movements. They argue that political polarization and the erosion of democratic norms could create conditions conducive to oppressive regimes.

4. Cultural Critics

Critics of modern society often point to the normalization of misogyny, the influence of fundamentalist ideologies, and the rollback of civil rights as warning signs that a Gilead-like society is not entirely implausible.

Conclusion

While the underlying themes of The Handmaid's Tale resonate with ongoing discussions about rights, autonomy, and the fragility of democracy, the full-fledged Gilead scenario remains a fundamentally improbable and theoretically constructed narrative. Regardless, the discussion it raises about the importance of preserving human rights and democratic values is crucial.