Anarchism: A Beginners Guide

The rise of the worldwide anti-globalization movement has led to a renewed interest in anarchism, but many are still unsure of what it is that anarchists stand for. In this clear and penetrating study, Ruth Kinna goes right to the heart of the anarchist ideology, explaining the influences that have shaped anarchism, and the tactics and strategies that anarchists have used to bring about their goals. Drawing on a wide range of sources, from the classic accounts of Kropotkin and Bakunin to the work of modern anarchist thinkers, Kinna assesses the claim that anarchy is preferable to the state, and shows how concepts such as authority and power have been incorporated into anarchist theories. Finally, Kinna confronts the key questions facing modern anarchists, including the true nature of the relationship of anarchism to the anti-globalization movement, and the issue of whether anarchist ideals can ever be consistent with the justification of violence for political ends. Suitable for undergraduate students as well as the general reader, this engaging and insightful work will provide the perfect introduction for anyone wishing to learn more about what anarchism is and where it stands in the 21st century.

Ruth Kinna is Lecturer in Politics at Loughborough University, UK. She is the author of William Morris: The Art of Socialism and co-editor of the journal Anarchist Studies. Her research focuses on socialism and anarchism in 19th century Britain.

CONTENTS
Introduction

1 What is anarchism
Anarchy: origins of the word
Anarchist thought: key personalities
Anarchist thought: schools of anarchism
Anarchist thought: history

2 Anarchist rejections of the state
Government, authority, power and the state
Anarchist critiques of the state
Self-government, 'natural' authority and 'social' power
Anarchism and liberty

3 Anarchy
Anarchy and anthropology
Anarchy and utopia
Experiments in anarchy

4 Strategies for change
Revolutionary strategies
Protest
Anarchism and violence

5 Concluding remarks