Thomas Moore's Utopian Society

Utopia: an incredible place -- the epitome of our imaginations that provides us with everything that we need. To me personally, the only utopian society that I can claim without judgment is the possibility of going to heaven. Thomas Moore's Utopia, might be a close second to some individuals; however I do not believe I would fair well living in this type of structured society.

The first reason I believe I would be uncomfortable living in the Utopian society declared by Thomas Moore is because the government to me seems lackadaisical. The kings duty is considered to be, "to take more care of his people's welfare than of his own,(540), yet it is proven that it is more challenging to take care of others unless your needs are met as well. I can't imagine living in a society where the king didn't take care of himself because he was so infatuated about the needs of everyone else. I find this restriction on government officials to be unrealistic and not ideal.

Secondly, the living conditions are not very pleasant. I cannot say that I would enjoy living amongst forty or more other adults with their children. I am a very introverted individual and definitely enjoy my privacy. I also cannot imagine myself becoming somewhat attached to an individual, only to have them move out after two years, (548). Because of my nature and shyness, I find it difficult to imagine myself thriving socially in this environment. Not only would I feel as though I didn't have any space to myself -- I would feel isolated amongst a large household of people.

Thirdly, I would have issues with not being able to have my own thoughts, hobbies, or interests that would clearly indulge my passion or interest in life. The utopian society clearly limits individuals and it seems as though they are very limited in their creative freedoms. The people are taught a trade that is to be performed, outside of their work duties, yet can only have their own education if they are pardoned from the work life -- but have to pursue one of the trades or farming regardless, (550). This to me seems very limiting and that the individuals that do choose to live in the Utopian society are conforming. I'm not entirely sure it would be for the better good. It really reminds me of Aldus Huxley's, Brave New World. While the people are self-sufficient to a certain extent among their households and in their society -- it doesn't seem like there is room for a purpose in their life. This is something I value greatly in my life.

Lastly, the lack of emphasis on religion would make the Utopian society very difficult for me to thrive. The emphasis seems to be on people's happiness and their pleasure (562) rather than their intimate relationship with a divine creator. I find life to be more meaningful and I believe that I should strive to be more intentional in my life as a follower of Christ. Living in the Utopian society with mixed beliefs and generic perceptions on happiness would be limiting and trite.

Now, I do believe there are pros of living in the Utopian environment. The individuals are self-sufficient. They have no poverty and a structured health care system to ensure that individuals are treated properly. They have a government that does look out for the people's best interest, and crime seems to be handled fairly.

Overall, this society falls short of the idea that I have of a utopian society -- which is sitting in heaven and meeting my savior. I believe my intent on earth is to follow his plan for my life -- and I'm fairly certain this would be impractical in the Utopian society where people's day and life is very structured based on the needs of their environment.

Works Cited

David, Alfred. The Norton Anthology, English Literature (Volume A.). New York: WW Norton and Company. 2006.