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Catch-22 Analysis

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The title Catch-22 means a contradictory course of action. Within the book, Catch-22 is used as a military rule. Basically, a pilot could be grounded from flying missions if the military deemed a pilot crazy. According to the rule, however, only a rational mind would be concerned for one's safety in the face of danger. Therefore, there is absolutely no way to for a pilot to become grounded, whether the pilot was sane or insane. There are a few other cases where this rule, Catch-22, is explained throughout the novel. The author sums it up best: "If he flew he was crazy and didn't have to; but if he didn't want to he was sane and had to." In Catch-22, a few of Joseph Heller's most important ideas that he is trying to convey are the absolute power of bureaucracy, the advantages people take in a free enterprise system, and the dehumanization of the pilots. The underlying idea that bureaucracy has total control over the war is evident throughout the novel. Throughout the novel we are told about the pointless missions Yossarian's squadron are forced to fly in. The commanding officers are risking the lives of their soldiers only for personal gain. The whole idea of people taking advantage of a free enterprise system is clearly portrayed throughout the novel. Throughout the novel, Milo is capitalizing on the goods that both sides need. He is taking complete advantage of the system and is making a fortune running a black market syndicate. He will even sacrifice his fellow American soldiers to make a quick buck. Heller shows the dehumanization of the pilots through the impersonal destruction of individuals. Some die through systems created by societies in order to wage war. Most of the pilots, however, end up dying through direct combat because of the pointless missions they are sent on by Cathcart. The soldiers' dehumanization is further emphasized because the pilots did not have a choice in the matter because of Catch-22. Bureaucracy, free enterprise, and dehumanization are all relevant concepts in my life some way or somehow, even though they may not be directly related to war. I do believe that bureaucracy has absolute power, especially when war is involved. For example, when the World Trade Center was bombed we invaded a country that the terrorists involved did not even originate from, we just needed to protect the oil reserves in that country. I believe that people do take advantage of a free enterprise system. There are many businesses today and people always trying to get ahead. I call it cut throat politics, where someone will "backstab" another person in order to make money. I also believe that everyone is dehumanized during some point in their lives. For example, when you have a job your are always having to listen to your boss no matter how tedious or ridiculous his requests may be. If you do not, there is always someone else willing to do the job, and you will lose yours.

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