Part 2, Chapters 3-4 Summary and Analysis

Charles Fourier and Robert Owen are representative of the thinkers of the early nineteenth century. Neither was a follower of the liberal politics that were in vogue at the time. Governments shouldn't function on just the abuses of religion and administration but should focus on industry. Neither say the present groups in society are capable of improving conditions for the masses. Both men were very sensitive to human suffering and abhorred cruelty.

Owen ran a textile factory in Manchester and was appalled at the conditions of the workers. He and Fourier both believed in the doctrines of Rousseau that man is basically good but is perverted by institutions. Both men believed there should be small groups of limited societies within the greater society. These groups would be privately sponsored and provide equal education to all children. Income...