Principles of Anarchism

by Tim Parise

“Principles of Anarchism” applies classical logic and deductive reasoning to the subject of human interactions and rights. Beginning with the axiom that all human beings are equal, the author goes on to draw a number of conclusions from this postulate in the manner of a Euclidean proof. These include the contention that there is no such thing as human rights, the assertion that anarchism is essentially intellectual rather than activist, and the suggestion that historical developments such as cities and industries are harmful to the human race rather than helpful. More centrally, though, the pamphlet argues very simply that any form of authority or government is logically incompatible with the existence of humanity. And it is the implications of this theory, rejection of which requires rejection of the equality axiom as well, which make the argument offered both novel and timely.

Genres: Politics

26 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 10, 2013

About the author

I was born on the island of Maui, but grew up mostly in Colorado and Montana, though I've also spent time in North Dakota, California, and Washington and now live in Florida. My first published poem came out when I was six and I've been writing away steadily ever since. I like to dabble in alternate futures as well as alternate histories, exploring man's potential to better the world instead of merely coping with it. Occasionally I also write historical nonfiction dealing with odd subjects that have taken too great a hold on my imagination.

Reviews

[Rikki · Rating 3 out of 5]

I feel like 4 stars is a little too exuberant for the enjoyment and education I got from this, but I liked it more than just "liked it," despite the androcentric language.

Parise concisely and by using logical flows defines and demonstrates what anarchism is and, to some extent, what it is not, focusing on delivering a logic-based introduction to anarchy and -ism with clarity and ease of understanding. I particularly liked his sum of communism: "Anarchism tempered with concern for others is communism." I particularly disliked that male pronouns were used throughout the manifesto to refer to the universal human ("one" is a grammatically appropriate, nonsexist, and recommended pronoun; males are not and should not be the default, just as hierarchy should not be). Overall, a decent little read. Highly recommended for those who believe anarchy/-ism means disorder and chaos and that a centralized governing body is required for peace to exist.

[Kyle Plunkett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great basic reading on anarachism

[Velvetink]

kindle

[Justin Seda · Rating 3 out of 5]

Excellent pamphlet.

I can't compete reading it until I post a review of at least twenty words. Screw you Amazon. More words.

[Dante Carlisle]

Concise and easy to read.