Final answer:
In dystopian literature, societies are depicted as oppressive with limited individual freedoms. 'Self-reliance' is not characteristic of these narratives, as they often show individuals under the control of an authoritative power. Therefore, SELF-RELIANCE is the element not associated with dystopian literature.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question asks for an identification of which option does not belong to the common elements of dystopian literature. In dystopian narratives, societies are often portrayed as oppressive and controlled by authoritarian regimes, and they exhibit a significant deterioration of social and political structures. These narratives typically involve the loss of individual freedoms, constant surveillance, and a significant gap in social equity. In this context, the options to evaluate are:
transcending nature to attain reason
equality of nations
SELF-RELIANCE
dystopian communities
Dystopian societies are often depicted as antithetical to the notion of self-reliance since individuals are usually under the control of a centralized power that limits personal autonomy, thus making SELF-RELIANCE the element that is not characteristic of dystopian literature.