How we cite our quotes: (Chapter. Paragraph)
Quote #1
The creative and therapeutic resources of the brain—whether waking or sleeping or dreaming—are practically infinite. If we can just find the keys to all the locks. The power of dreaming alone is quite undreamt of!" (3.33)
Dr. Haber seems to see the brain as some kind of puzzle that needs to be unlocked, and once he's found the key, he thinks he'll be capable of limitless power. So how do you think he feels when he first discovers George's abilities?
Quote #2
A person is defined solely by the extent of his influence over other people, by the sphere of his interrelationships; and morality is an utterly meaningless term unless defined as the good one does to others, the fulfilling of one's function in the sociopolitical whole. (5.7)
In other words, a person's worth is based on how much power they have. (So what about powerless people? Are they worthless?) This is a problematic way to define yourself, to say the least. What happens once you have power? Who are you then? What do you do with it? Who do you spend your time with? Do you respect them if they don't have as much power as you do? The list goes on.
Quote #3
All of a sudden she was scared; a cold qualm took her. What was she doing? This was no play, no game, nothing for a fool to meddle in. He was in her power: and his power was incalculable. What unimaginable responsibility had she undertaken? (7.148)
Why is Heather afraid of wielding George's power? Which reaction makes more sense: being afraid of limitless power, or desiring limitless power? Which characters take these positions? Which perspective seems like the right one in the novel?