Imperialism is Untenable

Several of the essays included deal with England's Empire and the form of government known as Imperialism. Even in essays where imperialism is not the primary focus, it is briefly discussed or indirectly referenced. All of the included essays were written during a period when England's Empire was in a state of decline and loss, in large part due to World War II. Orwell's primary objection to imperialism lies in the gross inequities which arise because of the system - England profits and the Empire suffers.

In Shooting an Elephant, Orwell notes that he served as a police officer in Burma for several years during a period of English rule. He found the gross inequalities extremely troublesome and his personal experience provides irrefutable facts and strong opinions that are difficult to argue against unless one has similar background. In Politics and the English Language, Orwell discusses...