Peter Kropotkin

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Кропоткин,_Петр_Александрович_(1842-1921;_примерно_1876)

Emma_Goldman_gives_eulogy_at_Peter_Kropotkin's_funeral

Metro_MSK_Line1_Kropotkinskaya

Peter Kropotkin

Peter Kropotkin (1842–1921) was a prominent Russian geographer, economist, sociologist, historian, and political theorist. He is best known for his contributions to anarchist theory and his advocacy of anarcho-communism. Kropotkin's ideas have had a significant influence on the development of anarchism and libertarian socialism.

Early Life

Peter Alexeyevich Kropotkin was born on December 9, 1842, in Moscow, Russian Empire, into an aristocratic family. He was educated at the Page Corps, a military academy in Saint Petersburg, where he excelled in his studies. Despite his noble background, Kropotkin became increasingly critical of the autocracy and the serfdom system in Russia.

Career and Contributions

Kropotkin's early career was marked by his work as a geographer. He conducted extensive research in Siberia and contributed to the field of geology. His scientific work earned him recognition, but he gradually shifted his focus to political activism.

Anarchist Theory

Kropotkin is best known for his development of anarcho-communism, a theory that advocates for a stateless, classless society based on voluntary cooperation and mutual aid. His seminal works, such as The Conquest of Bread and Fields, Factories and Workshops, outline his vision of a decentralized society where communities manage their own affairs without hierarchical structures.

Mutual Aid

One of Kropotkin's most influential concepts is that of mutual aid. In his book Mutual Aid: A Factor of Evolution, he argues that cooperation and mutual support are fundamental aspects of both human and animal societies. This idea challenged the prevailing Social Darwinism of his time, which emphasized competition and survival of the fittest.

Imprisonment and Exile

Kropotkin's political activities led to his arrest and imprisonment in Russia. He escaped from prison in 1876 and fled to Western Europe, where he continued his activism. He lived in Switzerland, France, and England, contributing to various anarchist publications and participating in international anarchist movements.

Later Life and Death

Kropotkin returned to Russia after the February Revolution of 1917, hoping to contribute to the revolutionary changes. However, he became disillusioned with the Bolshevik regime and its authoritarian practices. He spent his final years in relative isolation, continuing to write and correspond with fellow anarchists. Kropotkin died on February 8, 1921, in Dmitrov, near Moscow.

Legacy

Peter Kropotkin's ideas have had a lasting impact on anarchist thought and practice. His works continue to be studied and referenced by contemporary anarchists and socialists. Kropotkin's emphasis on mutual aid and decentralized organization remains relevant in discussions about alternative social and economic systems.

Related Pages

• Anarchism
• Anarcho-communism
• Mutual Aid: A Factor of Evolution
• The Conquest of Bread
• Libertarian socialism
• Social Darwinism
• February Revolution
• Bolshevik