In addition to its political background, George Orwell’s novel ‘1984’ also explores the social background of its dystopian world. The society depicted in the book is divided into three classes: the Inner Party, the Outer Party, and the Proles.

The Inner Party is the ruling class, and it comprises only 2% of the population. Members of the Inner Party are the elite, and they enjoy all the privileges that come with their status, including access to better food, living quarters, and medical care. They also have access to information and technology that is not available to the general population.

The Outer Party is the middle class, and it comprises about 13% of the population. Members of the Outer Party are responsible for implementing the Party’s policies and maintaining its control over the population. They work in various government ministries and are subject to constant surveillance and monitoring by the Thought Police.

The Proles, or the proletariat, are the working class, and they make up the majority of the population. The Proles are not subject to the same level of surveillance and control as the Inner and Outer Party members, but they are also denied access to information and technology that could help them improve their lives. The Party views the Proles as a potential threat, but they are generally ignored and left to live in poverty and squalor.

The social divisions in Oceania are reinforced by the Party’s control over information and technology. The Party controls all media and communication, and it uses propaganda to create an artificial reality that reinforces its ideology and suppresses dissent. The Party also uses technology, such as telescreens and hidden microphones, to monitor people’s behavior and thoughts.

The Party’s control over information and technology has a significant impact on social relationships in Oceania. People are discouraged from forming close relationships with others, as any emotional attachment could potentially lead to dissent or rebellion. Marriage is viewed as a necessary but loveless duty, and sexual relationships are strictly regulated by the Party.

Overall, the social background of ‘1984’ reinforces the book’s themes of totalitarianism and control. The Party’s control over information, technology, and social relationships reinforces its power and serves to maintain the status quo. The social divisions between the ruling class and the working class highlight the Party’s disregard for the wellbeing of its citizens and the importance of individual freedom and autonomy.