Social Context
Freedom Code’s prohibition of recreational chems in Fallout 4 reflects societal anxieties over addiction and moral decay in post-apocalyptic America. The law’s harsh punishments, stripping citizens of rights, serve as a stark warning against the dangers of vice. It also exposes the divide between “civilians” and those deemed “lost,” reinforcing a social hierarchy that stigmatizes certain behaviors.
Human Experience
For many survivors, Freedom Code’s execution is heartless and unjust. It punishes those who seek solace or escape from the harsh realities of the wasteland. The social isolation and fear perpetuated by the law create a cycle of despair, driving people to the very chems they’re prohibited from using. The game’s nuanced portrayal of drug addiction and its consequences highlights the struggles and humanity of those affected by societal judgment.
