The moral of Harrison Bergeron by Kurt Vonnegut is a cautionary tale about the dangers of extreme equality enforced by the government. The story illustrates how the pursuit of absolute equality can lead to the suppression of individuality, talent, and freedom. In the dystopian society depicted in the story, the government imposes handicaps on individuals who are above average in any way, ensuring that no one is smarter, stronger, or more talented than anyone else.
This enforced equality results in a society where mediocrity is the norm, and exceptional abilities are stifled. The protagonist, Harrison Bergeron, represents the human desire for freedom and self-expression. His rebellion against the oppressive system highlights the importance of individuality and the inherent value of diversity.
Ultimately, the story suggests that true equality cannot be achieved by dragging everyone down to the same level. Instead, it emphasizes the need for a society that values and nurtures individual differences, allowing people to reach their full potential. The moral is clear: a society that sacrifices freedom and individuality for the sake of equality is not truly equal, but rather, it is oppressive and dehumanizing.