Dystopian/Utopian Society

Definition, types, and examples

Utopian Society

A Place, state or condition that is ideally perfect in respect to politics, laws, customs, and conditions.

Golden Age, Amana colonies

http://www.nps.gov/nr/travel/amana/utopia.htm

Dystopian Society

An imagined universe where the outward appearance (to audience and main characters) is one of perfection, but corruption oppressive control make it less than perfect.

Examples from film: The Island, The Matrix, Wall-E, Demolition Man, Book of Eli, District 9, 12 Monkeys

Examples from Books: Nineteen Eighty-Four, Lord of the Flies, Fahrenheit 451, Time Machine

Characteristics of Dystopia

Propaganda is used to control citizens

Independent thoughts and freedoms are restricted

A figurehead is worshipped

Surveillance

Fear of the outside world

Dehumanized citizens

Natural World is banished and distrusted

Conform to uniform expectations: Follow all the same rules

Society appears perfect.

Types of Dystopia

Corporate ControlBureaucratic ControlTechnological ControlPhilosophical/Religious Control

Corporate Control

Bureaucratic Control

Technological Control

Religious Control