A utopian community is intentionally established by a group seeking to live out its ideas of an ideal society. Utopian communities may be religious or secular. Rather than simply sharing beliefs, members organize everyday life around them.
Historically, many such communities formed in the United States during the 19th century. Some Europeans viewed the country as a place with fewer established traditions, where new social and religious arrangements might be attempted. This expansion, however, took place through the forced removal of Indigenous peoples and the seizure of their lands and resources—a vital part of the historical context.
All flashcards
What is a utopian community?
A community intentionally created by a group seeking to put its ideas of an ideal society into practice.
What three characteristics are common among successful utopian communities?
They are physically separate from wider society, develop some economic self-sufficiency, and have a clear authority structure and shared ideology.
How can a religious utopian community function as an enclave?
It can establish a distinct religious way of life within the larger society, serving as a model that members hope may attract others.
How do Amish, Hutterite, and Bruderhof communities illustrate variation?
They differ in their use of technology and interaction with outsiders: Amish communities tend toward a plain lifestyle and separation, Hutterites are more interactive and accept more modern technology, and Bruderhof members combine communal living with work or study in wider society.
What is syncretism?
The integration of beliefs and practices from more than one religious system.
Quiz questions
What is secular religion?Answer: A system that gives social ideas, qualities, or commodities a metaphysical or semidivine status.
How does Shaker millennialist belief differ from the idea that Christ's return is only future?Answer: Shakers believe Christ has already returned and is present as the Holy Spirit within believers.
What is participant observation in anthropological fieldwork?Answer: A method in which a researcher observes social life and, when appropriate and permitted, takes part.
In the Andean highlands, what does Día de los Muertos illustrate through its Catholic and Indigenous elements?Answer: The integration of beliefs and practices from more than one religious system.
Why should an anthropologist distinguish community members' explanations from their own symbolic interpretations?Answer: They are different kinds of evidence and should not be treated as interchangeable.
Based on Introduction to Anthropology by Jennifer Hasty, David G. Lewis, Marjorie M. Snipes (OpenStax), licensed CC BY 4.0. Adapted into a summary, flashcards and quizzes.