Utopia and Gattaca Essay Example
Utopia and Gattaca Essay Example

Utopia and Gattaca Essay Example

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  • Pages: 4 (833 words)
  • Published: November 1, 2017
  • Type: Book Review
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Thomas Mere's text Utopia, written in the 16th Century, addresses the issues of class division and social injustice in medieval England. It emphasizes the significance of a government that prioritizes the safety and security of its citizens.

While Mere's text presents an alternative to a feudal world where corrupt power of the King and lords leads to dysfunctional social, political, and economic systems, we must be cautious that the satirical and critical aspects in this text do not cause our own citizens to question the laws and regulations our government has implemented to uphold public order.

It is important to recognize that Mere employs numerous satirical elements in Book 1, including the name Frames Nonsense which literally translates to 'dispenser of nonsense', as well as Utopia which means 'no place'. These satirical elements can potentially undermi

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ne the seriousness of Mere's constructed ideal, thus necessitating the censorship of the entire Book.

The decision to do this is grounded in the understanding that in Book One, Thomas More examines the shortcomings of an autocratic monarchy and a hierarchical social system. This can potentially lead our citizens to make connections between their government's use of political authority to enforce compliance with its laws and the feudal government of the 16th Century.

Although we may use Mere's criticism of inefficient and corrupt monarchies to emphasize our own efficient systems, which prevent the destruction of farms and the overall decline of agriculture, we must also ensure that our own citizens do not automatically assume that "prosperity for all" can be achieved without laws that require selfless contribution to the state. Therefore, it is believed that Book 1 should be

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censored to eliminate any elements that prioritize the interests of private citizens above those of the state.

The text in Book Two does not need any changes as it is less controversial. However, Moore occasionally appears to mock efficient systems that keep citizens engaged. Nevertheless, we can modify these parts to match our values. Moore argues that isolation is crucial in order to prevent foreigners from entering the country and disrupting the functioning of a Utopian society.

In Book 2, More emphasizes the importance of agriculture in reducing the risk of food shortages, making it compulsory for every citizen to contribute their labor to it. He also advocates for the virtues desired in citizens. Additionally, Mere's Utopia meticulously outlines social structures like family and community organizations to ensure citizens are constantly occupied and prevent them from engaging in idle thought.

Communal living arrangements, supervision and care for all ages, and organized leisure time may appear to limit choices and privacy for citizens. However, Moore presents such a utopian and secure society that we can assume citizens will also gain confidence in this approach. It is tremendously normal for this system to be implemented in his imaginary society of Alton. Moore satirically criticizes individual wealth, clothing, and jewelry by depicting chains and golden letters used to restrain slaves. Additionally, he includes the anecdote of the Flannelettes diplomats mocked for their luxurious jewelry. These elements serve to ensure that our citizens understand that accumulating personal wealth and possessions is not a social virtue.

The film Cataract by Andrew Niccole poses a serious threat to our authoritarian society, leading to a call for an immediate ban. Despite

being science fiction, the film explores the world of genetic engineering and a scientific approach to reproduction, introducing values that are considered unnecessary in our society. While the film's concepts are subtle, viewers may be able to compare these values to their own and face potential consequences. Cataract advocates for the power of dreams and the human spirit's ability to resist our authoritarian values, highlighting a commonality among humanity.

This film exposes our society to the negative aspects described in this text. It raises concerns about how the protagonist, Vincent, represents human determination and how his character can inspire others to recognize the negative aspects that our authoritarian government evaluates, albeit hidden. The concept of what is 'politically correct,' both in the fictional world of the film and in our own society, is challenged. The film provokes thought on how a system that restricts individuality can disrupt people's lives and potentially change their attitudes towards what they are accustomed to.

OUR government, which prioritizes the power and authority of the state over freedom, will discover that this film also explores the concept of moral decision-making. This serves as an incentive for our citizens to seek freedom, as it encourages them to question their conformity and the laws we enforce in their lives. By promoting individual freedom, if exposed to this film, viewers will undoubtedly be challenged in their routine and clinical approach to life. Consequently, I believe it is crucial for the efficient functioning of our state to ban Thomas Mere's book, Utopia, and Andrew Nicolas' film, Cataract. These works introduce values that prompt our citizens to question the regulations established by the government for

maintaining public order.

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