Utopia and Dystopia Two visions of the world

Utopia and Dystopia Two visions of the world

Utopia Definition: An imagined place or state of things in which perfection has been achieved. Origin: Sir Thomas More, 1516, Utopia Concept originally linked to religious ideals, but now also refers to socio-political ideals

Utopia How would you describe a utopian society? What would it look like? How would people act? Would there be laws? How would the utopian society handle the following things: Education Medical issues Careers Fashion Entertainment

Utopia Ø Could a utopian society ever truly exist? Why or Why not? Ø Have you ever seen a movie or read a book that was about a utopian society? • Describe it.

Dystopia Ø Definition: an imagined place or state of things in which everything is unpleasant, typically a degraded environment and a totalitarian regime Ø Origin: John Stuart Mill, 1868 speech in the House of Commons about Irish problem Common theme in modern books and movies

Characteristics of a Dystopian Society Ø Propaganda is used to control the citizens of a society Ø Information, independent thought , and freedom are restricted Ø A figurehead or concept is worshipped by the citizens of the society Ø Citizens are perceived to be under constant surveillance

Characteristics of a Dystopian Society Ø Citizens have a fear of the outside world Ø Citizens live in a dehumanized state Ø The natural world is banished and distrusted Ø Citizens conform to uniform expectations. Individuality and dissent are bad Ø The society is an illusion of a perfect utopian world