Anarchist communism

Anarchist Communism

Anarchist communism, also known as anarcho-communism, is a political philosophy and anarchist school of thought that advocates for the abolition of the state, capitalism, wage labor, and private property (while retaining respect for personal property), in favor of common ownership of the means of production, direct democracy, and a horizontal network of voluntary associations and workers' councils with production and consumption based on the guiding principle: "From each according to their ability, to each according to their need."

Historical Development

Anarchist communism emerged in the late 19th century as a radical offshoot of the broader anarchist movement. It was influenced by the works of Peter Kropotkin, Errico Malatesta, and other prominent anarchists who critiqued both the state and capitalism. Kropotkin's book, The Conquest of Bread, is a foundational text that outlines the principles of anarchist communism.

Early Influences

The roots of anarchist communism can be traced back to the Paris Commune of 1871 and the writings of Mikhail Bakunin, who argued against the authoritarianism of Marxism and for a stateless society. The failure of the Paris Commune inspired many anarchists to seek a society free from both state control and capitalist exploitation.

Development in the 20th Century

In the early 20th century, anarchist communism gained traction in various revolutionary movements, including the Russian Revolution and the Spanish Civil War. In Spain, the CNT-FAI (Confederación Nacional del Trabajo - Federación Anarquista Ibérica) played a significant role in establishing anarchist communes and collectives during the civil war.

Core Principles

Anarchist communism is characterized by several core principles:

• Abolition of the State: Anarchist communists believe that the state is inherently oppressive and must be dismantled to achieve true freedom and equality.

• Common Ownership: The means of production should be owned collectively, with resources distributed according to need rather than profit.

• Direct Democracy: Decision-making should be decentralized and participatory, with individuals having a direct say in the matters that affect their lives.

• Voluntary Association: People should be free to form associations and cooperatives based on mutual aid and cooperation, without coercion.

Criticisms and Challenges

Anarchist communism has faced criticism from both Marxists and capitalists. Marxists often argue that anarchist communism is utopian and lacks a clear strategy for achieving its goals, while capitalists criticize its rejection of private property and market mechanisms.

Internally, anarchist communists have debated issues such as the role of technology, the transition from capitalism to anarchism, and the balance between individual freedom and collective responsibility.

Notable Figures

• Peter Kropotkin: A Russian geographer and philosopher, Kropotkin is one of the most influential theorists of anarchist communism.
• Emma Goldman: An anarchist political activist and writer, Goldman was a prominent advocate for anarchist communism in the United States.
• Errico Malatesta: An Italian anarchist, Malatesta was a key figure in the development of anarchist communist thought.

See Also

• Anarchism
• Libertarian socialism
• Mutual aid
• Syndicalism

References

• Kropotkin, Peter. The Conquest of Bread. New York: Vanguard Press, 1926.
• Malatesta, Errico. Anarchy. London: Freedom Press, 1974.
• Goldman, Emma. Living My Life. New York: Alfred A. Knopf, 1931.

External Links

• The Anarchist Library
• Libcom.org