The Palgrave Companion to North American Utopias

What is utopia? Why are communes created? Where are they, and what do they promote? The Palgrave Companion to North American Utopiasis a fascinating catalog of utopian societies and communes from past to present. From the Shakers to the Mormons to the Raelians and the Hutterites, the quest for a utopian lifestyle has been a human endeavor since the beginning of time. In this intriguing guide, North American utopian communities are explored by John and Virginia Friesen with a view to a new social system for the twenty-first century. The authors assert that the formation of a utopian society is feasible, and give examples of how to create one. This is a smart, clever, and unique reference for all who are curious to know more about utopian communities.

John W. Friesen is a Professor in the Faculty of Education and the Faculty of Communication and Culture at the University of Calgary. He is the author of more than thirty books.

Virginia Lyons Friesen is a Sessional Instructor in the Faculty of Communication and Culture at the University of Calgary. She is the coauthor of In Defense of Public Schools in North America. The Friesens live in Canada.