Utopia: Imagining Better Worlds

Utopia refers to an imagined place or society where everything is perfect; people live in peace, happiness, and harmony, with no problems like poverty, injustice, or conflict.

But are people who dream of a better – or even perfect – society, just wasting our time? And what can we learn from utopian visions that have failed?

In this course we will read extracts from some of the most influential utopian texts ever written (including Thomas More’s Utopia) and discuss real-world examples of communities that try to build a better future from scratch. We will also look at how the built environment, from political institutions, to the design of buildings and cities, have been used to shape and control how people live. 

Using materials such as podcasts and readings, there will be plenty of space to ask questions and share your ideas in class.

Any recommended reading will be advised by the course teacher once the course is confirmed to run. You will require access to a computer or other device with internet connection. 

If you have fully engaged with all the learning activities and have attended regularly, by the end of the course you should be able to:

• Engage with key concepts in utopian studies to discuss contemporary social issues
• Question the suppression of utopian thinking and resistance to alternative futures being possible
• Critically reflect on the role of the political imagination in driving social change.  

This course is suitable for all. No previous experience is required.

We welcome all and are committed to fostering a positive culture and sense of community among learners and staff. We expect learners to treat others with dignity and respect. Learners must be aged 16+.

If you have a disability, learning difficulty, health condition, or personal circumstances which may affect your learning, please let us know so that we can make appropriate adjustments in accordance with the Equality Act 2010.

Wherever possible, we mainstream adjustments in line with the University’s  Accessible and Inclusive Learning Policy.

Learners will have limited access to the University’s student support services who will signpost appropriate local sources of support.  

This course is suitable for all. No previous experience is required.

You will need to have reading, listening and communication skills, including the ability to understand detailed ideas and information presented verbally and in writing. You must be comfortable learning in English if it is not your first language. You will need basic digital skills, such as using a computer and navigating a website, to access the learning materials.

Booking is available until 23:59 the day before the course start date, unless the course is full or cancelled.