Altrurian

Altrurian refers to an inhabitant of Altruria, a fictional utopian society conceived by the British author William Dean Howells in his 1894 novel "A Traveler from Altruria" and its sequel, "Through the Eye of a Needle." The Altrurians in Howells' narratives represent an ideal society where collectivism, cooperation, and spiritual fulfillment have replaced competition, materialism, and social stratification. They are depicted as a people who have achieved a harmonious existence through a radical restructuring of their social and economic systems, prioritizing the common good and personal growth over individual wealth accumulation.

In "A Traveler from Altruria," the protagonist, Mr. Twelvemogh, comes from this advanced society and shares its principles with the reader, highlighting the stark contrast with the capitalist America of the late 19th century. Altruria is portrayed as a place free from poverty, labor struggles, and social injustice. The Altrurians are characterized by their gentle demeanor, intellectual curiosity, and a deep sense of communal responsibility. Their society functions on principles of shared resources and equitable distribution of labor and its rewards. The concept of Altrurianism, therefore, embodies a philosophical and social ideal, often used as a benchmark for critiquing existing societal structures and envisioning alternative possibilities for human civilization.