A "Perfect Society" in "Utopia" Written by Sir Thomas More

Introduction

In the More Utopian readings (Utopia by Sir Thomas More), we learn about the different ways that the Utopians lived. We learn about their various rituals and how they adhere to a certain lifestyle. The readings have all been very interesting due to the fact that each one is unique in its own way and how they all have a connection in terms of customs and notions that they practice and indulge in. When it comes to creating a “perfect” society, there is a challenge in maintaining a balance among people and laws. This means there can be agreements and disagreements depending on how you create your society and what laws and notions you choose to apply to your Utopia. One important custom, notion, or practice of the Utopians that caught my attention is how they all have the same laws.

Equality and Laws in Utopia

According to More (1516), “... the manners, customs, and laws of which are the same, and they are all contrived as near in the same manner as the ground on which they stand will allow.” This suggests that every city in this Utopia is treated equally, with no one being treated less or differently. They also discuss certain concerns and are provided with any necessities they wish to have. This is something that I believe should always be considered because everyone deserves rights and equality among everyone. This can also reduce conflicts in society since no one would complain about differences and how they are treated. Another important custom, notion, or practice of the Utopians that caught my attention is how they all practice a certain custom that they have derived since childhood.

Education and Agricultural Practices

More (1516) notes, “Agriculture is that which is so universally understood among them that no person, either man or woman, is ignorant of it; they are instructed in it from their childhood, partly by what they learn about in school, and partly by practice, they being led out often into the fields about the town, where they not only see others at work but are likewise exercised in it themselves.” They are all required to live on a farm for a couple of years to gain experience in agriculture, even though they have inherited it already. Each man and woman has a certain duty to complete, such as the manufacture of wool or flax. This custom is very important because it helps them develop skills that will be useful in the future. They can pass this custom down to their children so they can learn how to farm and live their lives in this manner. I envision a small-scale Utopia because I believe that a small-scale Utopia will be easier to manage than a larger one.

Community Participation and Governance

The essential goal in this Utopia is to be an active, participating community. For this to happen, we would have to ensure that people attend a mandatory meeting every month at the city hall with the Mayor so everyone can discuss any concerns, ask questions, and come to an agreement to solve the issues. We want people to share fundamental goals, values, and commitments. Every person would have a chance to address whatever they want, but will have to fill out an application stating their concern or question and turn it in a week before the meeting date for the Mayor to review it during the monthly meetings. This is to try and avoid conflicts and make things flow smoothly throughout the city. Men and women would have equal rights and responsibilities, which means no rigid gender roles.

Social Policies and Education

Sexual freedom and experimentation in relationships would be allowed as long as they involve consenting adults. To avoid overpopulation, the limit for a family household is five. Avoiding overpopulation is important because then the city would become too full since it is a small-scale utopia, and this would probably affect any custom, notion, and practices expected to be followed. Regarding education, it would be a free school environment so everyone can earn an education, regardless of age. Schools would provide school supplies and books to every student at no cost. Additionally, tutoring would be offered to every student who needs extra help. This is to encourage both kids and adults to further their education as far as they wish. Earning an education would also help gain knowledge for a stable career. Healthcare would be provided to prevent illnesses, diseases, and deaths, with every hospital and clinic being free to any patient and providing medication.

Housing and Infrastructure

Every house is built the same, except any color may be chosen, so it can be ordinary in some way and not be identical. The houses would be built the same to try and avoid people from judging others on how they live and, most importantly, so if anything needs maintenance, it would be easier to fix, knowing how everyone’s house is set up. Every house would be provided with cameras, alarms, and insurance to avoid any robberies and cover any stolen belongings. The backyards would have many fruit trees and vegetable crops to provide families with fresh produce instead of having to go out to the grocery store and purchase it.

Special Holidays and Stress-Free Living

Also, one special holiday will be “Stress-Free Day,” which would consist of no one having to attend work or school on that certain day so everyone can get a chance to relax and enjoy the day off without any responsibilities. This also means that mostly every store, restaurant, and business will be closed. People would be allowed to go to nearby parks, spend time with family, or take a trip to the beach and enjoy the sun. Every individual is expected to live as stress-free as possible to be able to live their lives as they wish, just like everyone should.

References:

More, T. (1516). Utopia. [Ebook]. Retrieved from [insert source link here]