Soma
Overview
The term "Soma" has multiple interpretations and applications across different fields and cultures. In biology, it refers to the body of an organism, excluding the germ cells. In Indian mythology, Soma is a ritual drink of importance among the early Indo-Iranians, and the deity Soma was the god of this drink. In Aldous Huxley's dystopian novel, Brave New World, Soma is a powerful psychotropic drug used by the populace for social control and escapism. This article will delve into these interpretations in detail, providing a comprehensive understanding of the term "Soma".
Soma in Biology
In biological terms, the soma is the body of a cell, as distinguished from the germ line cells which are involved in reproduction. The soma includes all the parts of an organism except the reproductive cells. This includes cells, tissues, and organs such as the heart, liver, and brain. The term is often used in the field of neuroscience to refer to the cell body of a neuron, excluding its axons and dendrites.
Soma in Indian Mythology
In Indian mythology, Soma represents both a god and a celestial drink. The drink Soma was prepared by priests during rituals and consumed for its stimulating and hallucinogenic properties. The god Soma was the deity of the moon and plants, and was associated with health, immortality, and the power of the mind.
Soma in Brave New World
In Aldous Huxley's Brave New World, Soma is a powerful psychotropic drug used by the society for social control. It is distributed by the government and used by the populace to suppress feelings of discontent, anxiety, and social unrest. The use of Soma in the novel is a commentary on the use of drugs for social control in modern societies.