Agree, mostly. It's the proverbial frog in a slowly heated pan. He doesn't jump out b/c it's a slow burn. Add to that bells, whistles and entertainment gadget distractions ...and now we are in a place where we knowingly & unknowingly give our private lives away.
History:
The "policing" of verbal statements/behavior was actually a reality for many marginalized ppl in this country in the form of Jim Crow laws, internment camps, etc.
Now:
Compared to that, the pendulum has swung in the other direction...in favor of 1st amendment & expanded civil rights.
Caveat:
The internet/social media has made disseminating the "products" of indiv. 1st amendment rights very easy. It also has made crushing those that exercise that right very easy, & the monitoring people (both online & off) in general is easier.
So we're not 1984, yet. But it's a good discussion to have about the similarities & differences before it's more of a reality than sci fi fantasy.
Disclaimer: I've read multiple summaries /plot synopsises of the book but have not read it cover to cover.