The Story of Utopias · Chapter
Bibliography explained
This chapter provides a curated bibliography of utopian literature, explaining the author's selection criteria and highlighting key works and influences, including references to Fourier, Spence, Owen, Veblen, Geddes, and others, as well as
What happens
This chapter provides a curated bibliography of utopian literature, explaining the author's selection criteria and highlighting key works and influences, including references to Fourier, Spence, Owen, Veblen, Geddes, and others, as well as critical secondary sources.
Themes in this chapter
The Role of Ideas and Myths
The chapter discusses the dynamic force of ideas and social myths, referencing Durkheim, Fouillée, Sorel, and Kidd.
Community and Social Harmony
The bibliography focuses on utopias as complete pictures of ideal commonwealths aimed at improving the human community.
Characters to notice
- Charles Fourier
Mentioned as a significant figure restored to deserved attention in the bibliography.
- Thomas Spence
Included as a figure given space in the bibliography to restore his place.
- Robert Owen
Given short shrift but noted as an interesting and significant figure.
- Patrick Geddes
Highlighted as the outstanding exponent of the Eutopian method, with references to his works.
- Thorstein Veblen
His 'Theory of the Leisure Class' is recommended as a unique satire prefacing the chapter on the Country House.
- Max Beer
His 'History of British Socialism' is cited for its discussion of the relation of utopians to socialism.
- François Rabelais
Mentioned in connection with the Abbey of Thélème and its clue to Renaissance culture.
Key passages
“I set out to treat such plans for the improvement of the human community as had been embodied in complete pictures of an ideal commonwealth”
The author focused on utopias that present full visions of an ideal society.
Defines the scope of the bibliography.
“Professor Geddes is the outstanding exponent of the Eutopian method both in thought and in practical activity”
Geddes exemplifies the utopian approach in theory and practice.
Highlights Geddes' role as a key figure.