Useless things Quote by Sir Thomas More
““The Utopians call those nations that come and ask magistrates from them Neighbours; but those to whom they have been of more particular service, Friends; and as all other nations are perpetually either making leagues or breaking them, they never enter into an alliance with any state. They think leagues are useless things, and believe that if the common ties of humanity do not knit men together, the faith of promises will have no great effect; and they are the more confirmed in this by what they see among the nations round about them, who are no strict observers of leagues and treaties.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Utopia by Thomas More, 1516
Utopians view neighboring nations as friends when they receive help, but avoid formal alliances because they distrust treaties and leagues.
In simple terms: They prefer informal friendships over binding agreements.
Key Takeaway
Rely on flexible, informal cooperation.
Themes
trust
friendship
politics
alliances
skepticism
Mood
cautious
reflective
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- diplomacy
- business partnerships
- community building
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
social contract
realpolitik
human nature
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance trust and formal agreements?
- When is a loose alliance preferable to a treaty?
A Different Perspective
Informal ties can be fragile without legal reinforcement.
![“[The Utopians] marvel that any mortal can take pleasure in the weak sparkle of a little gem or bright pebble, when he has a star, or the sun itself, to look at. They are amazed at the foolishness of any man who considers himself a nobler fellow because he wears clothing of specially fine wool. No…” quote by Sir Thomas More](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/3c5/sir-thomas-more-36260_death_the-utopians-marvel-that-any-mortal-can_269185.jpg)
