My Utopia

Blog Post #1

What is your vision of a perfect world? Define your idea of a utopia.

Sarah Harmet

My vision of a perfect world would be one that most others would imagine too. No fighting among people, equal opportunities for everyone, etc. It's hard to think of actually living in a Utopian society. Everyone is supposed to be happy. But, if there is no sadness, how can people really know what happiness is? They don't know any better, so they can't wish for anything else, they're almost brainwashed. But, if I were to live in a Utopian society, it would probably be similar to Thomas Moore's view.

As for location, an island would be ideal, but I doubt that the resources would last for long. If the society were located on a continent, it would have to be big enough for a large supply of resources, but small enough so the people aren't able to form groups or cults. The terrain of the island would have to consist of plains suitable for farming, without any mountains to create boundaries. The edges of the continent would be walled, with enough turrets to fight off an invasion. There would also have to be a radar scrambler, so that incoming planes would not be able to attack. As for location on the globe, it would have to be in an area with a year round growing season. Winters wouldn't be ideal, because growing food would be impossible.

Concerning wealth, all citizens would be treated equally. No one would look up to those who are wealthier (there wouldn't be any in the first place because everyone has the same amount of money). Just as Thomas Moore stated in his book Utopia, “...or that he should value himself upon his cloth being made of a finer thread. For, however fine this thread, it was once the fleece of a sheep, which remained a sheep...” So, in my Utopia, everyone would be equal in terms of wealth and social status.

Regarding working conditions, there would have to be a variety of jobs. People to farm, people to watch out for invaders, etc. All jobs would be equal, not one more beneficial than the others. But, to keep everyone happy, there would be a rotation of jobs. Everyone would spend 1 year on one job, and then switch to a different one. If they wish, they can remain on a certain job for a maximum of 2 years. This is so that people can enjoy what they like to do, but are still required to do what is best for their society.

Finding a perfect way to govern a Utopian society I difficult. Having a democracy could work, but there are always going to be people with different thoughts on how the government should be. I'm not really sure what government I would have in my Utopian society...probably a democracy. But, there would be multiple small “governments” as well to make sure everyone is happy.

Overall, my utopia would be pretty basic, and focused on keeping everyone happy. There will be equal jobs, social status, and wealth.