Babbitt praises business ethics, but he is not above making shady deals with the Zenith Street Traction Company. He often talks about leading a moral life, but then goes to a brothel and indulges in an adulterous affair. Education and religion are merely means of getting ahead in real estate. Most important of all, Babbitt is able to see that his life has serious flaws and that he could be a better man than he is now. Much of the book is devoted to showing Babbitt trying to become that man. He escapes with Paul Riesling to the woods of Maine, which symbolize for him a masculine world, free and brave. He supports Seneca Doane's political crusade, though he isn't intelligent enough to choose really effective ways of rebelling, or is he strong enough to make his rebellion last. Babbitt is simply a man who knows he should be, and could be a better man, but does not have the will power to improve himself. All Babbitt can hope for as his story ends is that the next generation of Babbitts, represented by his son, Ted, will somehow manage to lead a better life.
George Babbitt is complacent, unable to think for himself, and he is only concerned with appearance and social status. Babbitt is motivated only by the desire for superficial things. When driving to work he is inspired by the Zenith skyscrapers. His home consists of all the latest conveniences and appliances. The interior was decorated by the finest and most stylish contractors. On his way to work, a mechanic boosts Babbitt's self esteem by being attentive and respectful. He buys a cigar lighter because it would be an impressive luxury to show his friends. This type of behavior continues throughout the novel. Babbitt invites the prestigious members of the community over for dinner to boost his own self esteem. Babbitt and his best friend Paul decide to take a trip to the woods to feel young again, and here Babbitt vows to change his life and rebel against the norm.
