Fourier, << FOO ree ay, >> Charles (1772-1837), was an important French socialist. He criticized the social conditions of his times, and held that society could be improved if private property were eliminated.
Fourier thought society could be improved through an economic and social regrouping of people. He wanted to create small, self-sufficient farm communities of about 1,600 people each. Each person would own a share of the property in these communities. All people in the community would be required to work, but they could choose their own type of work. Fourier’s ideas attracted many followers. However, he could not put together enough money to start such a venture. Fourier was born Francois Marie Charles Fourier on April 7, 1772, in Besancon, France. He died on Oct. 10, 1837.
