New Books in Critical Theory

Alex Prichard, "Anarchism: a Very Short Introduction" (Oxford UP, 2022)

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May 31, 2023
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INSIGHT

Defining Anarchism

  • Anarchism is a political philosophy that denies any final point of authority, challenging the legitimacy of supreme powers.
  • It seeks alternative authority through mutual aid, equality, and direct participation, embracing hierarchy when functional and consensual.
INSIGHT

Anarchist Terrorism and the State

  • Anarchist terrorism aimed to awaken consciousness through action, sometimes violently, but was often misattributed or manipulated by state agents.
  • This "terrorism" ultimately strengthened nation-states by justifying increased security and control measures.
INSIGHT

Anarchism and the Rise of Nation-States

  • Anarchists supported early national liberation movements but opposed the state as an instrument of freedom.
  • They believed true freedom came from communal self-organization, not state institutions, even revolutionary ones.
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