wow
Thanks, all! These responses have been very helpful for narrowing down my focus--and, for confusing
1984 even more for me
Based upon the discussion, I am leaning far more toward a communitarian/collectivist society (John Stuart Mill and Ayn Rand's
Anthem) than any type of communism-becomes-totalitarianism setup (
1984). My goals are far more philisophical and psychological with this story than anything political or economical. However, I am finding it rather difficult to wrap my head around an extreme collectivist society that
doesn't result in some singular Big Brother figure...any thoughts?
I found the response that referenced Rousseau to hit the nail right on the head--
Emile does an excellent job of summarizing the antagonizing ideals of my dystopia. Trotsky is also an excellent avenue of research, should I want to take a more forceful and violent approach toward a group achieving this type of society.
As for whether or not the government is drugging its citizens, the answer is
no--I want this to be strictly psychological indoctrination via decades of change in the educational system (think Brave New World, minus geneticism...although I haven't finished that book, no spoilers please

). Whereas
1984 was based on force (look at Winston's fate), I want a society that almost runs itself on its "brainwashed" (for lack of a better word) ideals. They aren't necessarily evil people, it's just how they were taught.
Much like an extreme religious man may believe with full conviction that the Earth is 5,000 years old, the citizens of my story believe with full conviction that free will and choice (particularly choice in one's direction in life i.e. profession, love, hobbies, even faith) are too powerful for them to face alone--that choosing by one's self is abhorrently selfish and an act made against the community. Furthermore, a choice (a real choice, not what type of Pop Tarts to eat) made alone will almost always be the wrong one--man is doomed to such failure by the very flawed nature of humanity.
In other words, this is a society that actively and purposely seeks out the blissful ignorance of animals--go to work, go home, enjoy a life free of the burden of choice. In the words of Don Draper from Mad Men, "People just want to be told what to do."
I guess what I'm trying to figure out now is the historical catalyst for all of this. I can't just Bioshock/Atlas Shrugged it and make up a city underwater, in the sky or in a cave or something.
Either WWII or the Cold War (someone/everyone pressing the button) are my first inclinations. Any thoughts?