Utopia book 3

• The people only take slaves from those in battle. They do not take them for prisoners of war, nor sons of slaves, or those from other nations. They only condemn slaves from their own people for committing some sort of crime. Foreigners can willingly become slaves to our people. They always have the option to leave and usually something is given so they do not leave empty handed.

I agree with this set up. Just because they call them slaves doesn’t really mean they’re slaves. It seems to me that the only people that become slaves are criminals and poor people. Criminals become slaves as a punishment and the poor people become slaves so they live a better life as more of a servant.

• When an authority such as the priests or the Senate advises a person to choose death and the person agrees, it is known to be very honorable. If any person chooses death without the authority’s approval then there are no honors of a decent funeral for the person and the person’s body is thrown in a ditch.

I disagree with this. Everyone should have a respectful funeral. A person no doubt has done something in his life that is commendable whether it is barely significant or outstanding and deserves a decent funeral.

• Polygamy and divorces are not allowed except in the case of adultery and insufferable perverseness. Then in the case of adultery, the victim can marry again while the adulterer is not allowed a second marriage and is criticized by the public.

I can agree with this idea. It’s wrong to cheat on your spouse so there has to be some kind of punishment.

• The Prince himself has no distinction either of garments or of a crown but is only distinguished by a sheaf of corn carried before him.

I agree with this idea of no crown. It makes me feel that the Prince isn’t power hungry and isn’t condescending towards others, but rather gives off the feeling that says, “Hey I’m just an average joe like you guys” and a feeling of equality.

• Utopians hate war and will not go to war unless it is for defense or to assist their friends. They find no glory in it. They will not accept the spoils of war despite that they assisted their friends.

I like this idea but one thing that bothers me is that it makes the Utopians look passive and weak. Then there is a possibility that other nations will walk all over them, demand things or else war.

• Reward is given to anyone even to enemies if they kill a specific person such as the enemy’s prince. Taking account for the risk and danger, land is also given.

I agree with this idea. To take out the most vital people out of your enemies can win wars. This would also make a poor person possibly rich in the process. There are several religions all over the island. That’s pretty good that they have a choice in what religion to believe in.