Utopia by Thomas More — cover

Utopia

Utopia is a book on political philosophy written by Thomas More in Latin and published in 1516. It is considered one of the most important political texts of its time and one of the creators of the utopian fiction genre.

The book details the report made by a sailor on the island of Utopia, which is organized and has a social order very different from what existed at the time. Utopia means "nowhere" in Greek.

There, all men were equal except the slaves. Private property does not exist, so there is also no greed, need or avarice. All people work for the common good and no ruler is too powerful to impose his will.

This social organization collided head-on with the monarchies of the time in Europe. In fact, it presents some ideas more typical of socialism or communism.

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Political fiction Satire Philosophy Political structure Social justice Moral philosophy Ideal society vs. real society

Public domain (US)·No sign-up·DRM-free·Real text, not scans

Pages
108
Reading time
3 hours 39 minutes
Pace
Intermediate
First published
1516
Language
Latin
Downloads
2,858

510 years later, still timely

Why Read Utopia in 2026?

A traveler describes a flawless island to critique his own world. More turns thought experiment into political satire and civic challenge.

Today's connection

Essential background for debates on work, property, and the common good—an invitation to redesign rather than escape.

Island as mirror

Elsewhere reflects here.

Justice imagined

Institutions under the lamp.

Design thinking

Policies as prototypes.

Perfect for Students of political science Readers interested in philosophy Enthusiasts of classic literature Those curious about societal ideals

These collections include Utopia

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About the author

Portrait of Thomas More

Thomas More · 1478–1535

Utopia as a question; law work and fairness tested by design not wish.

1 books by Thomas More in the library →

If this one stays with you…