
Erewhon (A Dystopia)
The Masterpiece that Inspired Orwell's 1984 by Predicting the Takeover of Humanity by AI MachinesBy Samuel ButlerLength8h 49m
About this audiobook
Samuel Butler's 'Erewhon' is an incisive critique of Victorian society, exploring themes of morality, individuality, and the relationship between humanity and technology. Written in a satirical style, Butler constructs a fictional utopia that is anything but perfect, employing a blend of parody and philosophical inquiry that engages with contemporary issues of his time, particularly the industrial revolution and its attendant moral dilemmas. The book's narrative unfolds in a whimsical yet thought-provoking manner, as Butler boldly questions societal norms, ultimately envisioning a world that serves as a mirror to his readers' own realities. Butler, an influential literary figure of the 19th century, was known for his avant-garde approach to art and philosophy. His own experiences, including a journey to New Zealand and keen observations of societal hypocrisy, significantly shaped his critical perspective. His background in the family of a clergyman and his exposure to various philosophical texts, including Darwin's theories, further informed his exploration of evolution in both a biological and social context, as seen in 'Erewhon.' This book is essential for readers interested in dystopian literature, philosophical explorations of society, or those yearning to understand the critiques of their own cultural frameworks. 'Erewhon' not only entertains but also prompts profound introspection, making it a timeless work that resonates profoundly in today's discourse on technology and morality.
Audiobook details
GenreDystopia, Humor
Length8 hrs 49 mins
Narrated byListen with 1,000+ voices
FormateBook with Audio
Publish dateNov 26, 2023
LanguageEnglish
Table of contents
1Erewhon (A Dystopia)
18XIV. Mahaina
2Preface to the First Edition
19XV. The Musical Banks
3Preface to Second Edition
20XVI. Arowhena
4Preface to the Revised Edition
21XVII. Ydgrun and the Ydgrunites
5I. Waste Lands
22XVIII. Birth Formulae
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6II. In the Wool-Shed
23XIX. The World of the Unborn
7III. Up the River
24XX. What They Mean By It
8IV. The Saddle
25XXI. The Colleges of Unreason
9V. The River and the Range
26XXII. The Colleges of Unreason—Continued
10VI. Into Erewhon
27XXIII. The Book of the Machines
11VII. First Impressions
28XXIV. The Machines—Continued
12VIII. In Prison
29XXV. The Machines—Concluded
13IX. To the Metropolis
30XXVI. The Views of an Erewhonian Prophet Concerning the Rights of Animals
14X. Current Opinions
31XXVII. The Views of an Erewhonian Philosopher Concerning the Rights of Vegetables
15XI. Some Erewhonian Trials
32XXVIII. Escape
16XII. Malcontents
33XXIX. Conclusion
17XIII. The Views of the Erewhonians Concerning Death