At a glance
Anarchism challenges the legitimacy of coercive hierarchy, especially the state, and advocates social relations built on voluntary association and self-government.
Core principles
- Opposition to imposed authority; mutual aid; voluntary cooperation; decentralization; freedom from domination. Most historical currents also oppose capitalism.
Origins & development
Modern anarchism developed during the nineteenth century through thinkers including Proudhon, Bakunin and Kropotkin, and through labor and revolutionary movements.
Economic outlook
Communist, collectivist and mutualist branches propose different ownership and exchange systems. Shared opposition to economic domination does not imply centralized state planning.
Society & government
Stateless federations, assemblies and autonomous associations replace compulsory government. Many branches favor secular, egalitarian communities; religious anarchist traditions also exist.
Variations & related traditions
Anarcho-communism, anarcho-syndicalism, mutualism and individualist anarchism differ substantially. Our guide emphasizes the historical social-anarchist tradition.
Debates & criticisms
Debates concern coordination, public services, defense and accountability without a state. Anarchists disagree over markets, revolutionary violence and gradual community-building.