# Bibliography explained — The Story of Utopias

> Chapter companion for The Story of Utopias by Lewis Mumford.

## 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.

## Character check-ins

### 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 lines

> 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._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_story_of_utopias_se/chapters/bibliography
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_story_of_utopias_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_story_of_utopias_se/chapters