'Men Like Gods' Summary

In the summer of 1921, Mr. Barnstaple, a disillusioned journalist, embarks on a countryside drive that transforms into an extraordinary adventure. Along with other motorists, he is swept into the future, landing 3,000 years hence. This futuristic world, a testament to humanity's advanced technological and social progress, presents a utopia where war, poverty, disease, and bigotry are nonexistent. The citizens live fulfilling lives, unburdened by the constraints of traditional governments and religious institutions. Yet, while Barnstaple initially marvels at this ideal society, he soon encounters a group of time travelers from his own era who seek to reshape the utopia in the image of their own imperfect world. Their desire for familiar structures and hierarchies clashes with the utopian principles of the future society, setting the stage for a conflict between progress and tradition. As Barnstaple navigates this strange new world, he grapples with the potential and perils of social evolution. He witnesses the achievements of humanity's future, but he also observes the lingering flaws and challenges that remain. Wells's novel ultimately poses a provocative question: Can we truly achieve a utopian society, or are we destined to repeat the mistakes of the past?