In Anthony Burgess's novel "A Clockwork Orange," the central theme revolves around the concept of free will and moral choice. The protagonist, Alex, is subjected to a controversial treatment that removes his ability to choose between good and evil, raising the question of whether true goodness is meaningful without the freedom to choose it. The struggle between state control and individual liberty is illustrated through Alex's journey, emphasizing the importance of making moral decisions rather than simply being conditioned to behave in a certain way.
The quote, "Does God want goodness or the choice of goodness?" reflects this philosophical dilemma. It suggests that the essence of morality lies not just in actions but in the ability to choose those actions. If individuals are stripped of their capacity to choose, can their good deeds be considered authentic? The narrative prompts readers to contemplate the value of free will in the pursuit of goodness and whether coercion can ever lead to true moral behavior.