Abstract

More postulates a mythical society based on the laws of nature and a theology that includes a belief in Divine Providence, the existence of an immortal soul in humans, and reward and punishment after death, which causes Utopians to live wisely and justly. More compares the fair arrangements in Utopia with societies in other nations in which the aristocracy and the wealthy contribute little to the general good but live splendidly. Laborers, farmhands, and coachmen, whose work is essential to society, in contrast, live in wretchedness, fearing the extreme poverty of old age. The upper classes rule society and enact its laws that codify the misery of the poor. Even they, however, would be happier in Utopia