A Clockwork Orange

What is the inspiration for the film?
A Clockwork Orange is based on a book by Anthony Burgess written in 1962 which focuses on the conflict between an individual and the state.

Why did Kubrick choose to make this film at that time?
'Recent experiments in conditioning and mind control on volunteer prisoners in America have taken this question out of the realm of science-fiction'- Kubrick was attempting to make a comment on the states mistreatment of criminals and also seems to be commenting on the socialising of humans from violent creatures into respectable citizens.

How did people react at this time?
Public:
-One fan wrote a letter to Stanley Kubrick demanding his money back because he claimed the film made him feel like alex- 'I mean people are sick enough without you adding to the general misery'
-The film sparked a series of copycat crimes such as two teenage girls kicking a gay man to death, similar to the scene in A Clockwork Orange
-Younger fans were sad that they couldnt see the film due to it X rating
-A methodist minister said that the film put him in a 'mild state of shock'
-One man wrote a letter asking for the number of the girl in the rape scene- this worried Kubrick