The society we live in and the way which it is governed is constantly changing. Governments are continuously trying to improve our world and the way that we live, attempting to create a world close to perfection. Could we one day reach the point of having a universal and single utopian society? If we did, what would this utopia look like? This question has been answered by philosophers for centuries. But each philosopher has a different idea as to what a utopian society would look like. Looking closely at Plato’s Republic, More’s utopia, and Aristotle’s, the negative and positive aspects are shown.
Thomas More’s idea of utopia strives for equality to all. Though the main aspect if his utopia is positive, it is taken to the extreme and in turn, negatively affects society. Everyone would dress the same and all houses would be identical, as would each town. This would completely eliminate individual’s freedom of expression and in turn, eliminate differences among people. Slavery would also be a part of this utopian society. Though the slaves would only be those who commit crimes, this is a negative aspect of the society as it enforces cruelty to its citizens. And although it claims to accept religious differences, this utopia condemns those who lack a religion, eliminating the citizen’s right to freedom of religion. Overall, this particular utopian society has more negative aspects than positive ones.
While fascism focuses on the state working together harmoniously, it puts more emphasize on the needs of the state rather than the needs of the citizens. The happiness of individuals is not important as long as the state is in order. Not only is the happiness of the citizens unimportant but the privacy of the individuals is equally unimportant. A fascist utopia intervenes in every aspect of its citizen’s life. While this utopia has a state that is in working order, the lack of care for its citizens increases the negative aspects of the society.
Plato’s republic is the closest to that of a perfect utopian society, as it focuses on the individuals in the society. Everyone in the society would have an important part to play in the utopia. And each individual would be educated to strengthen their talents. And only those who are well educated will rule over the society, to ensure justice for all. Although everyone would continue to be separated by social classes, the elimination of private property eliminates the differences between the rich and the poor. This ultimately creates economic equality for all. Though this idea of utopia has been condemned for its lack of democracy, if everyone is happy, democracy may seize to be needed.
In conclusion, a utopia that is perfect is one where the citizens work harmoniously together to strive for a united society. While at the same time, the needs of each citizen are taken into account so that every individual is happy in their utopian state.
