Fighting For Ourselves - Anarcho-syndicalism and the class struggle

by Solidarity Federation

The Solidarity Federation's book, Fighting for ourselves: anarcho-syndicalism and the class struggle, aims to recover some of the lost history of the workers' movement, in order to set out a revolutionary strategy for the present conditions. In clear and accessible prose, the book sets out the anarcho-syndicalist criticisms of political parties and trade unions, engages with other radical traditions such as anarchism, syndicalism and dissident Marxisms, explains what anarcho-syndicalism was in the twentieth century, and how it's relevant - indeed, vital - for workers today.

Genres: Politics, Nonfiction, History, Labor, Anarchism

124 pages, Paperback

First published October 27, 2012

Reviews

[Sugarpunksattack Mick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Solidarity Federation’s pamphlet ‘Fighting For Ourselves; Anarcho-syndicalism and the class struggle’ is easily on the same level, and perhaps even a much needed update to Rudolf Rocker’s “Anarcho-Syndicalism: Theory and Practice.” This pamphlet is very accessible and very clearly written; it avoids jargon when possible and thoroughly explains all the basic concepts surround anarchism and syndicalism as well as briefly covering other radical currents.

The most powerful parts of this book are the sections that situate Anarcho-syndicalism historically and theoretically apart from other radical currents and reformist, progressive, or just basic bureaucratic unions. They make a clear distinction between the strategy and commitments of anarcho-syndicalism as opposed to syndicalism and council communism, which is not always easy given their general similarities. Likewise, they present the differences between anarcho-syndicalism and other radical currents that are certainly more antagonistic towards them like those that push radical political parties as the vehicle of revolutionary change. Despite their clear opposition to this approach, I think the book presents the ideas of the revolutionary party accurately while obviously being critical. Highly recommended.

[Patrik Plvan · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book gives a comprehensive overview of the history of Anarcho-syndicalist movement and serves as a guide on how to organize on the workplace. Do not expect a lot of theory - the book is suitable for people already familiar with the topic and is relevant mainly for people working in production, members of labour unions etc. If you want to learn about Anarcho-syndicalism, read Bookchin or Rocker or perhaps Chomsky.

[D · Rating 3 out of 5]

Decent, but not riveting. Helped fill in some gaps, without much jargon. A bit Euro-centric.

[M · Rating 3 out of 5]

meh

[Infinidimincorp · Rating 3 out of 5]

So why I came to read this book is a long story, revolving around the "peasant sketch" from Monty Python's "Holy Grail." I had my reasons for trying to better understand Anarchy. I have a lot of friends who would describe themselves as Anarchists, and I've never really grokked what they actually thought.

Short. Readable. Now I understand better. Written for a UK-centric context whilst making reference to Anarcho-syndicalism abroad. It's one sided, but that's sort of what it's for. It's certainly helped me clarify why I wouldn't describe myself as an anarchist, whilst giving me a deeper understanding of some of the ideology and a more critical perspective on certain political positions. It doesn't quite lay down what the actual anarcho-syndicalists fundamentally believe, but it helps paint the way.

[R. Reddebrek · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fine updating of Anarchosyndicalism for the 21st century. Rebuts many of the old arguments whilst acknowledging and developing genuine criticisms. Looks at many different views and examples of syndicalist organising and is a good primer for further investigation into many other more specialised subjects like the Argentine FORA and the hot Autumn of Italy.

[John Connor · Rating 3 out of 5]

Decent book if you're interested in a closer look at SolFed's aim's and goals. Only skimmed through half the book - read from the chapter on the Neo-Liberal counter-offensive until the end. Wasn't particularly impressed with their analysis of the 1970's restructuring, but the book is a worthwhile read if only for the last few chapters, which cover some interesting new ideas on the role of the revolutionary union - particularly on the strategy of mass assemblies. Will probably write more when I return to the book later.

[Cybermilitia · Rating 3 out of 5]

Akımları uzaktan ele alması çok verimli bir metot olmuş. "İyiler"e yaptığı eleştirilerse tamamen klişe. Kendilerini savunamamışlar.