Anarchism in a Capitalist society

Most people I have encountered question, do not agree or believe Anarchism is a viable political ideology let alone in a Capitalist society.


If we accept we live in a society, on a planet, in a world dominated in every sphere by Capitalism then how can another ideology exist let alone by real in practice?


The contradictory or diversity of humans means things exist through individuals but may not have a large presence. Communes, Kibbutz, Camps, etc. are examples of collections of individuals living together by a different ideology. But individuals also do the same without connecting with others in the same place.


Vegans, Animal Rights supporters and the like practice an ideology through their actions. Some believe their individual actions (lifestyle) transcend to others. Or they actively advocate thus influencing others. This is sometimes deemed ‘ middle class’ or not political due to lack of collective entity.


So what could someone believe and practice under the term Anarchism?

A branch of anarchism promotes the idea of activism and not relying on a State. Therefore DIY is an active belief. Often this can be political but could also be cultural and/or social. So bringing people together for a common cause could be deemed Anarchism.

Often this collective approach is deemed Anarchist because of its approach not necessarily purpose. Usually the suggestion is it is confrontational, too antagonistic, argumentative, etc. Such that Anarchism is often referred to as solely violence. And regularly deemed terrorism.


The State defines Terrorism, vary vaguely, so as too allow it to be used as a weapon against those not promoting Capitalism. But it also convinces it's citizens that violence is the main reason to oppose. 


Some Anarchism is actively peaceful, pacifist, non-confrontational and counters the ‘violence’ tag. Another form of activism ‘does The States work’. Hunt saboteurs groups actively seek to stop animal (particularly fox) hunting. In 2004 a law to this effect was put passed. The Police, due to lack of resources, other priorities or political choice tend not to prevent this crime taking place so hunt sabs do that job. 


Returning to the DIY and anti-State method we could class not voting in elections as an Anarchist action. Many find this difficult to comprehend. Why would you actively not vote?


  1. Voting supports that system of electing

  2. Voting supports the dominant parties involved (literally Labour and Conservative)

  3. Once elected your MP will follow The Party Line regardless of your views

  4. As a voter you are meant to believe your vote counts

  5. Your vote only counts if your candidate wins - they are elected

  6. Your vote is a way of registering your dissatisfaction - so is not voting

  7. There have only ever been two hung parliament's therefore one of two Parties always wins - how often is it yours Labour 1 in 3, Conservative 2 in 3.

  8. Having not voted, or voted losing Party, you do not have an MP who supports your views

  9. So why not express your views by a different method?


So many of  you don't think, act or believe Anarchism can win, has a place in society, needs to exist, is not your bag, is (too) violent, is only for weirdos, hippies and the like. I could continue the list of why to not support Anarchism, Anarchy, Anarchist views, ideas, actions, beliefs but every one of them means wasting time not being Anarchistic. 

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