The Problem of Illegalism in Anarchist Thought
An Egoist Perspective (which might clear up some misunderstandings as well)
Anarchism is a political philosophy rooted in principles of freedom, voluntary cooperation, and the abolition of authority. There are many angles to it and it, therefore, has long been associated with a diverse range of perspectives and strategies.
Essentially, one would think that at the heart of any and all anarchist thought must lie a fundamental rejection of centralized power structures, whether they manifest in the form of the state, capitalism, or other hierarchical institutions.
Within this framework, the concept of illegalism is valid and, technically, anarchists shouldn’t have a problem with it. However, it’s an incredibly contentious topic that not only challenges notions of legality, but also enters a realm of morality, and then, ultimately, leads to a debate about the problem of human nature and the potential need for some kind of social order.
Illegalism, as a tactic of direct action and defiance against oppressive systems, holds different meanings and implications across various strands of anarchist thought.
From anarcho-communism's emphasis on collective struggle to anarcho-individualism's prioritization of personal autonomy, attitudes toward illegalism within anarchist circles reflect an insanely complex interplay of, well…tragically…ideology. There are so many anarchist groups, such as anarcho-syndicalism, anarcho-primitivism, anarcho-feminism, and more, which each offer distinct perspectives on the role of illegalism in the pursuit of anarchist goals, but they are also infested with ideology and implicit hierarchies.
This exploration aims to provide insight into the different branches of anarchist thought by dissecting the divergent attitudes toward illegalism to shed some light on the multifaceted ways in which anarchists conceive of resistance, revolution, and social change. By examining the principles, strategies, and historical examples associated with illegalism across various anarchist groups, maybe we can gain a deeper understanding of the complexities and contradictions inherent in anarchist thought and bring it back to its fundamental core.
What is Illegalism?
First, let’s figure out what illegalism even is.
Illegalism is a philosophy within the broader anarchist tradition that advocates for the use of illegal activities as a means of personal liberation and political resistance. This approach has a clear message. It supports the idea that laws and legal systems are inherently oppressive and designed to maintain the status quo, benefiting the ruling class while subjugating the f**k out of others.
Illegalists reject the moral and legal standards imposed by society, arguing that these norms are arbitrary and serve the interests of the powerful. They believe that individuals should not be subjected to laws that they did not consent to.
Illegalists often engage in direct action, which can include theft, sabotage, fraud, and other illegal activities. These acts are seen as both a means of survival and a form of resistance against the state and capitalist systems.
In principle, illegalism is all about personal autonomy and the belief in the supremacy of the freedom of everyone, meaning that illegalists are aware that illegalism means danger for everyone involved. Them included. It supports the idea that the right to freedom trumps the right to safety.
Illegalists critique the concept of work and property, viewing wage labor as a form of exploitation and private property as a tool of oppression. By engaging in illegal activities, they seek to undermine these institutions and reclaim autonomy.
Historically, illegalism gained prominence in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly in France. Notable figures associated with illegalism include the French anarchists Alexandre Marius Jacob and the Bonnot Gang, who were known for their daring criminal activities aimed at challenging the established order.
While illegalism is a radical and controversial approach within anarchism, it highlights the lengths to which some individuals are willing to go to achieve personal and political liberation while also underscoring the deep-seated contradictions of legality and morality present in certain strands of anarchist thought. This is what we will get into now by exploring the common approaches to the question of legality by anarchists within the various branches:
Anarcho-Communism
Anarcho-communism represents a school of thought within anarchism that advocates for the abolition of the state, capitalism, and private property, in favor of common ownership and democratic control of the means of production. Rooted in the writings of theorists such as Peter Kropotkin, Errico Malatesta, and Emma Goldman, anarcho-communism emphasizes solidarity, mutual aid, and collective struggle as the means to achieve a classless, stateless society.
Within the framework of anarcho-communism, attitudes toward illegalism are shaped by a commitment to mass organizing, revolutionary solidarity, and the creation of alternative institutions. While anarcho-communists share a desire to dismantle oppressive structures, their approach to illegalism varies.
“The poor become poorer, and the rich richer... It is no wonder that a cry for justice, often only in the form of illegalism, goes up to heaven.”
- Peter Kropotkin
Some view illegalism as a necessary tactic in the struggle against capitalism and the state, recognizing the limitations of legal avenues for social change. For these anarchists, acts of sabotage, expropriation, and direct action serve as means of confronting and destabilizing oppressive systems, paving the way for revolutionary transformation.
However, not all anarcho-communists embrace illegalism as a viable strategy. Critics argue that illegalism risks alienating potential allies, reinforcing negative stereotypes, and providing justification for state repression. Instead, they advocate for grassroots organizing, community-building, and nonviolent resistance as more effective means of achieving anarchist goals. For these anarchists, the focus is on creating prefigurative alternatives to existing structures of power, such as worker cooperatives, mutual aid networks, and liberated spaces, which embody the principles of anarchism in the here and now.
"We are convinced that freedom without Socialism is privilege and injustice, and that Socialism without freedom is slavery and brutality."
- Errico Malatesta
Historically, anarcho-communists have engaged in a variety of tactics, ranging from labor strikes and insurrections to propaganda of the deed and revolutionary uprisings. The interpretation and application of illegalism within anarcho-communist movements have evolved over time. Despite internal debates and disagreements, anarcho-communists remain united in their commitment to challenging capitalism, authoritarianism, and exploitation, albeit through different means and methods.
Anarcho-Syndicalism
Anarcho-Syndicalism is often likened to anarcho-communism. And while both anarcho-syndicalism and anarcho-communism share a commitment to anarchism and the abolition of capitalism and the state, they differ in their approaches to achieving these goals, their visions of post-revolutionary society, and their emphasis on specific organizational structures. Anarcho-syndicalism prioritizes labor organizing and direct action within the existing society, while anarcho-communism advocates for the immediate establishment of communal ownership and distribution.
Anarcho-syndicalism is a school of thought within anarchism that emphasizes the organization of labor unions and industrial workers as a means to achieve revolutionary social change. Rooted in the principles of direct action, solidarity, and worker self-management, anarcho-syndicalism seeks to abolish capitalism and the state through the direct empowerment of the working class.
Within the framework of anarcho-syndicalism, attitudes toward illegalism are closely intertwined with the tactics of labor struggle and direct action. Anarcho-syndicalists believe in the power of workers to challenge and undermine capitalist exploitation through strikes, occupations, and other forms of industrial action. Illegalism, in this context, can be seen as a legitimate tactic in the struggle against capitalist oppression, as workers assert their autonomy and assert their rights against the dictates of employers and the state. But beyond the revolutionary struggle, violence is seen as a real problem.
“The anarcho-syndicalist does not recognize the law of the jungle... Violence is justified only as a means of defense against aggression, not as an end in itself.”
- Rudolf Rocker
Historically, anarcho-syndicalist movements have engaged in a wide range of illegal actions, including sabotage, and expropriation as means of asserting workers' power and advancing revolutionary goals. From the Industrial Workers of the World (IWW) in the United States to the Confederación Nacional del Trabajo (CNT) in Spain, anarcho-syndicalist unions have played a significant role in radical labor struggles, challenging capitalist exploitation and state repression through direct action and solidarity.
Despite differences in the willingness to use illegal means, anarcho-syndicalists remain united in their commitment to the principles of direct action, solidarity, and workers' self-emancipation. Whether through legal or illegal means, anarcho-syndicalists continue to organize and resist against capitalist exploitation and state oppression, striving to create a world based on principles of freedom, equality, and mutual aid.
Anarcho-Individualism
Anarcho-Individualism is a school of thought within anarchism that places a strong emphasis on individual autonomy, voluntary association, and self-liberation from social constraints. Rooted in the writings of figures such as Benjamin Tucker, and Émile Armand, anarcho-individualism rejects collective authority in favor of personal sovereignty and freedom of action.
Within the framework of anarcho-individualism, attitudes toward illegalism are often shaped by a deep skepticism of societal norms and institutions. Anarcho-individualists view illegalism as a means of asserting personal autonomy and challenging oppressive laws and regulations that restrict individual freedom. Acts of defiance, such as squatting, shoplifting, or tax evasion, are seen as legitimate forms of resistance against coercive authority and social control.
“The anarchist individualist tends to look upon crime as a revolt against the existing order and considers every outlaw a comrade in arms.”
- Émile Armand
However, not all anarcho-individualists advocate for illegalism as a primary strategy. Some emphasize the importance of ethical egoism, voluntary cooperation, and nonviolent resistance as means of achieving anarchist goals. For these anarchists, the focus is on individual self-liberation and self-realization, rather than engaging in confrontational tactics.
"The sovereignty of the individual, the central point from which anarchistic philosophy starts, is the very highest development of man, not merely in the sense that it makes him, in the words of Stirner, 'a law unto himself' – but also because it raises him to his highest moral dignity and independence."
- Benjamin Tucker
Historically, anarcho-individualists have engaged in a variety of illegal actions, ranging from individual acts of rebellion to organized acts of insurrection. From the illegalist activities of figures such as Renzo Novatore and Severino Di Giovanni to the individualist experiments of intentional communities and lifestyle experimentation, anarcho-individualists have sought to live according to their own values and desires, regardless of societal norms and expectations.
Despite internal disagreements and debates, anarcho-individualists remain united in their commitment to personal autonomy, voluntary association, and self-liberation from social constraints. Whether through legal or illegal means, anarcho-individualists continue to assert their autonomy and challenge authority, striving to create a world based on principles of freedom, self-realization, and individual sovereignty.
Anarcho-Capitalism
Anarcho-capitalism is primarily associated with the Austrian School of economics and libertarian philosophy. The most notable philosopher associated with anarcho-capitalism is Murray Rothbard, who is often considered its founder. Rothbard developed the principles of anarcho-capitalism in his works such as For a New Liberty and The Ethics of Liberty.
Rothbard explores the idea that the state, as a coercive institution, illegitimately extracts resources from individuals through taxation and other forms of coercion. Anarcho-capitalists like Rothbard argue that eliminating the state would lead to a society based on voluntary interactions and free markets, where individuals can pursue their interests without interference from a centralized authority.
Anarcho-capitalism places a strong emphasis on the protection of private property rights. Proponents argue that individuals have the right to own and use property as they see fit, without interference from the state. From this perspective, illegalism, which often involves actions such as theft and property damage, directly conflicts with the foundational principles of anarcho-capitalism.
"The state is a gang of thieves writ large."
- Murray Rothbard
Anarcho-capitalism advocates for voluntary interactions in all aspects of life, including economic transactions and relationships. In contrast, illegalism may involve coercive or non-consensual actions, such as theft or fraud, which violate the principles of voluntary exchange and individual consent.
In anarcho-capitalist theory, private defense agencies or arbitration firms would replace traditional government functions such as law enforcement and dispute resolution. These agencies would operate on a voluntary basis and compete in a free market. Illegalism, which often involves acts that are considered criminal under existing legal systems, would likely be addressed by these private defense agencies through mechanisms such as restitution, arbitration, or ostracism.
While anarcho-capitalism upholds the right to private property and the accumulation of wealth through voluntary means, illegalism challenges the legitimacy of property rights and may advocate for the redistribution of wealth through direct action. This fundamental disagreement reflects broader philosophical differences between the two ideologies regarding property, wealth, and economic justice.
Other Anarchist Groups
In addition to the ones mentioned above, there are several other anarchist groups that offer distinct perspectives on issues of legality, morality, and resistance. These include anarcho-primitivism, anarcho-feminism, anarcho-pacifism, and anarcho-transhumanism.
Anarcho-Primitivism
Anarcho-primitivism advocates for a return to pre-civilization, primitive ways of living, viewing technology and civilization as inherently oppressive. Within this framework, attitudes toward illegalism are basically irrelevant. It is concerned with returning to a pre-civilized state. And that could mean anything.
“Civilization originates in conquest abroad and repression at home. Each is essential to the other.”
- John Zerhan
Anarcho-Feminism
Anarcho-feminism focuses on the intersection of anarchism and feminism, challenging traditional gender roles and oppressive hierarchies that subjugate women within society. Views on illegalism within anarcho-feminism vary, but most commonly advocate for liberation by any means necessary. However, at the same time, anarcho-feminists tend to critique the violence of patriarchy, thereby most certainly advocating for a nonviolent interpersonal and social existence.
"In the process of achieving our freedom, we must not hesitate to resort to illegal means."
- Voltairine de Cleyre
Anarcho-Pacifism
Anarcho-pacifism advocates for nonviolent resistance and the rejection of all forms of violence, even in pursuit of revolutionary goals. Generally, anarcho-pacifists oppose illegalism and advocate for nonviolent means of resistance.
"Illegalist tactics, such as violence and lawbreaking, only perpetuate the cycle of oppression and suffering. We must instead pursue non-violent forms of resistance that foster understanding and dialogue."
- David Dellinger
Anarcho-Transhumanism
Anarcho-transhumanism integrates anarchist principles with the idea of using technology to enhance human capabilities and eliminate social hierarchies. Views on illegalism within anarcho-transhumanism vary greatly.
All in all, they are usually willing to engage in direct action, if it results in the transformation they seek, but tend to focus more on technological solutions.
"As anarcho-transhumanists, we recognize that the status quo is often upheld by unjust laws and oppressive systems. While we prioritize non-violent means of resistance, we also acknowledge the potential of illegalist tactics to disrupt these systems and pave the way for a more equitable future."
- Max More
Each of these anarchist groups offers unique perspectives on the concept of illegalism, reflecting the diversity of thought and tactics within the broader anarchist movement.
What is Different about Egoist Anarchism?
Egoist anarchism is often likened to individualist anarchism as it shares many of the fundamental principles. It is a philosophical and political perspective that places the individual and their own interests at the center of moral and social thought. Rooted in the ideas of Max Stirner, egoist anarchism rejects external authorities, moral principles, and societal norms that constrain individual autonomy and self-expression.
Egoist anarchism prioritizes the pursuit of one's own desires, interests, and self-fulfillment above all else. From this perspective, illegalism can be seen as a natural expression of individual autonomy, where individuals act according to their own desires and needs without regard for external moral or legal constraints.
Egoist anarchism rejects the authority of the state, as well as any other external institutions or norms that seek to impose restrictions on individual freedom.
However, Illegalism is as irrelevant as any other spook, in this regard. It can be used or not. It is up to the individual and their individual desire, and willingness to take risks.
[...] What I have in my power, that is my own. So long as I assert myself as holder, I am the proprietor of the thing; I do not step shyly back from your property, but look upon it always as my property, in which I respect nothing. Pray do the like with what you call my property!"
- Max Stirner
Egoist anarchism emphasizes unique individuality and subjective experience of each person. So, it’s whatever. Do what you please. And I will do so as well.
While illegalism may involve actions that are considered morally or legally wrong by conventional standards, egoist anarchists won’t tell you that actions resulting from legitimate expressions of individual autonomy and self-interest are wrong or right in any capacity.
After all, the only authority in your life is you.
Comparative Analysis
Comparing the attitudes toward illegalism across various anarchist groups reveals both common themes and divergent perspectives within the broader anarchist movement. While each group shares a commitment to challenging authority, their approaches to illegalism vary based on their core principles, tactics, and strategic considerations.
Across all anarchist groups, there is a shared commitment to resisting authority, whether it be the state, capitalism, patriarchy, or other forms of domination. Some see illegalism as a means to achieve revolution, others merely focus on their own bubble, and then some really just want the freedom to make shit happen for themselves (yeah, I am talking to you, anarcho-capitalists!)
Anarchist groups generally emphasize the importance of some form of action as a means of achieving change - either on a personal or social level.
Divergent Perspectives
Strategic Considerations:
Anarchist groups differ in their strategic assessments of illegalism as a tactic. While some see illegalism as a necessary means of confronting oppression, others prioritize legal or nonviolent forms of resistance to avoid alienating potential allies or inviting state repression.
Ethical Considerations:
Anarchist groups also differ in their ethical assessments of illegalism. While some justify illegalism as a form of justified resistance against unjust laws, others emphasize the importance of ethical principles such as nonviolence, consent, and respect for others in their approach to activism.
Prefigurative Politics:
Some anarchist groups emphasize prefigurative politics, which involve creating alternative institutions and practices that embody anarchist principles in the present. These groups may prioritize legal or community-based approaches to change over illegalism.
Conclusion
While illegalism serves as a point of contention and debate within anarchist circles, it also highlights a shared commitment to liberation.
Across different anarchist groups, there is a recognition of the need to confront oppression and come up with alternatives to existing power structures.
Despite the disagreements, anarchists remain united in their rejection of authority, hierarchy, and exploitation - whether through illegal or legal means. In doing so, they embody the principles of freedom that lie at the heart of anarchism.
As we look to the future, the exploration of attitudes toward illegalism within anarchist thought invites critical reflection on the potential of radicalism as a beginning point of SOMETHING.
Because I think the one thing we all agree on is that SOMETHING needs to change.
True Freedom and Egoist Anarchism
What makes Egoist Anarchism so unique is its absolute rejection of all authority of meaning outside of the individual’s will and desires.
While it shares some principles with all of the above-mentioned anarchist groups, it does not adhere to any external principles or goals beyond those of the individual.
Egoist anarchism's unique stance rejects all abstract concepts, including the idea of society, morality, or collective goals, as "spooks" or illusions. The egoist anarchist focuses solely on their own will and desires, viewing any external impositions as constraints to be disregarded or overcome.
In conclusion, egoist anarchism stands apart from other forms of anarchism in its radical emphasis on individual sovereignty and self-interest. While other anarchist groups may engage in illegalism as a tactic for broader social change or as a critique of systemic oppression, egoist anarchism views it simply as a matter of personal choice and empowerment, without any obligation to broader ideological or ethical frameworks.
In this way, there is no difference between principles and laws. There is no difference between societal norms and personal whims; all are seen as equally arbitrary constraints on MY (YOUR) individual autonomy.
So, actually…the world is mine. And your world is yours.
If you like and value Max Stirner and his legacy, please have a look at my project. I am attempting to build a Max Stirner network of sorts. A think tank.
If you are interested and would like to know more, please follow the link below: