Trouble in Utopia: Similarities Between Thomas More’s Ideas and Karl Marx’s Communist Philosophy

Modern interpretations of Thomas More’s critical and controversial Utopia have sparked significant discussion regarding its messages to audiences in the sixteenth century. In Utopia, More illustrates an idealized society characterized by cooperation, equality, and a liberating lifestyle devoid of stress. Over time, scholars and students have drawn parallels between More's vision and contemporary communist practices, particularly those seen in nations like North Korea, Cuba, China, and Russia. The associations with communism often evoke images of oppressive regimes, limited resources, and a dismal quality of life. While both Utopianism and communism share certain traits, they are fundamentally different in their philosophical foundations. This essay will explore the similarities in work life, conformity, and strict laws between More's Utopia and Marxist communism, while ultimately framing More’s work as a manifestation of Renaissance humanism.

Work Life in Utopia

One of the most significant aspects of Utopia is its depiction of work life, where communistic tendencies become apparent. Utopians take pride in their six-hour workdays, emphasizing agriculture as a communal responsibility. This focus on farming can be likened to Mao Zedong’s policies during China’s “Great Leap Forward,” where citizens were mandated to contribute to steel and grain production. More writes, “Agriculture is the one occupation at which everyone works, […] and throughout their lives always wear the same style of clothing” (More 603). This collective approach to labor, coupled with a uniformity in attire, mirrors the communist ideal of all citizens working together for the common good, regardless of personal preference.

Moreover, the Utopians’ adherence to public laws governing the distribution of goods underscores a shared ethos with communist societies. More states, “consequently, the Utopians maintain that one should not only abide by private agreements but also obey all those public laws which control the distribution of vital goods” (More 616). This parallels the communist imperative for efficiency and productivity among workers, demonstrating a mutual submission to the demands of labor.

Conformity and Isolation

Another key element in Utopia is the emphasis on conformity among its citizens. The inhabitants display no signs of discontent regarding the societal norms imposed by their leaders. More notes that “hardly any stranger[s] enter” (More 599), suggesting a deliberate seclusion from external influences. This isolation is reminiscent of North Korea’s stringent border controls, which restrict interactions with outsiders. Additionally, More articulates a societal resistance to change, stating, “It is a general rule that the more different anything is from what people are used to, the harder it is for people to accept” (More 611). This highlights a culture of conformity, where deviation from the norm is discouraged, paralleling the communist emphasis on uniformity to eliminate potential conflict.

• Isolation from outsiders
• Uniformity in thought and behavior
• Resistance to change

Strict Laws and Governance

Furthermore, the strict laws governing Utopia echo the authoritarian nature of many communist regimes. More’s depiction of governance reveals that “the whole city was planned by Utopus himself […] The governor holds office for life” (More 601-602). This mirrors the often lifelong rule of dictators in communist states, where power is concentrated in the hands of a single leader. Additionally, Utopians justify warfare against those who do not utilize their land effectively, asserting, “it is perfectly justifiable to make war on people who leave their land idle and waste” (More 607). This extreme stance reflects the aggressive posturing of certain communist nations, further blurring the lines between More’s Utopia and historical communism.

Distinguishing Utopianism from Communism

Despite the apparent similarities between Utopia and communist philosophy, it is essential to contextualize More’s work within its historical framework. Written in 1516, Utopia predates the establishment of Marxist ideology, which was articulated in the Communist Manifesto of 1848. The concept of a utopia, focused on humanistic ideals and the flourishing of the mind, stands apart from the practical application of communism, which sought to address socio-economic inequalities through radical means.

While both philosophies aim for equality, their approaches differ significantly. Utopianism, rooted in Renaissance humanism, promotes individual growth and intellectual advancement, whereas communism focuses on restructuring society through class struggle. More’s intention was to critique the socio-political issues of his time, envisioning a society free from material concerns where individuals could thrive together. In contrast, Marx sought to dismantle the structures of capitalism to create a new social order.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while there are compelling arguments suggesting the presence of communistic elements in Thomas More’s Utopia, it is crucial to recognize the underlying humanistic principles that define the work. The parallels drawn between Utopianism and communism, particularly in terms of work life, conformity, and governance, should not overshadow More’s broader critique of society. By examining Utopia as a product of Renaissance humanism, we gain insight into More’s vision of a society that prioritizes learning and personal development over materialism. Ultimately, Utopia serves as a timeless reflection on the nature of equality and community, inviting readers to consider the implications of a society stripped of excess.

Works Cited

Bukharin, Nikolai, and E. Preobrazhenskii. The ABC of Communism; a Popular Explanation of the Program of the Communist Party of Russia. Ann Arbor: U of Michigan, 1966. Print.

More, Thomas. Utopia. The Norton Anthology of English Literature, edited by Julia Reidhead, W.W. Norton & Company, 2012, pp. 599-616.

Yassour, Avraham. "Communism and Utopia: Marx, Engels and Fourier." Studies in Soviet Thought, vol. 26, no. 3, 1983, pp. 217-227.