Is anarchism closer to socialism or liberalism?

Question

I need to know so I can shut my inasanely politically minded friend up.

Answer 1

It's not very close to either, Albert.

Answer 2

CONTRARY TO PREVIOUS ANSWERS...
Political parties and theories are best defined in terms of TWO dimensions. One dimension has 100% capitalism at one end, and 100% socialism at the other. The OTHER dimension has the INDIVIDUAL at one end of the spectrum, the STATE at the other end. Most modern political party platforms are clearly somewhere toward the middle of both dimensions - and hence labelled 'centrist'.

But In this framework of thought, ANARCHISM is at an EXTREME position,on both axes, being both LIberal and Socialistic.

It is LIBERAL- because power is in the hands of individuals and not a state apparatus- It is SOCIALIST because trade and anarchist society is theorised to be both COOPERATIVE, and centred on (equal) INDIVIDUALS - therefore NOT organised around corporate entities such as limited companies or state organisations - where power accumulates in the hands of the few.

By the way, anarchism does NOT have to imply 'chaos'. It is perfectly possible for free individuals to conduct their lives through voluntary, cooperative and mutually beneficial means, without 'power interests' being involved. Think, if you will, of trade 'guilds'; mutual societies; building societies; local councils; parent-teacher associations etc. It is theorised by anarchists that individuals will belong to many groups in order to advance trade, learning, and general society.They will all be 'free' organisations, in which, any 'managerial' roles will rotate within the group. And they will form, and disband, as needs arise. Organisation - yes! But without 'big business' - or The State as a supreme body.

Anarchism is an idealistic vision, in which individuals are both FREE (the LIberal philosophy) but also EQUAL (the Socialist principle). It has only been attempted in practice very fleetingly in history, having obvious weaknesses....Many of those responsible for the Russian Revolution hoped and worked for an 'anarchist' outcome - including Bakunin. (But they actually got State Communism instead).

The term 'anarchism' is clearly one that is often abused. By definition, violent, power-wielding thugs and terrorist organisations - such as The Angry Brigade or 'The Red Army' - were never 'anarchists'. They never knew the meaning of the word....

Answer 3

Because 'anarchism', or the belief in anarchy as a theory of government, attracts followers and has a central tenent, its nature is undercut by its very implementation. In other words, a true anarchist could never get along with another anarchist because no two anarchists have the same idea as to what 'anarchy' represents. If they did, it wouldn't be anarchy. Therefore, anarchism bears little or no relation to 'anarchists', it is a label placed there by others. Politically, they are closer to liberalism in that they consider individuality paramount, but liberals label themselves as such to form a group identity. True anarchists exists as individuals alone.

Answer 4

You will never shut him up, understand that concept right now.

But to answer your question. It is no where near socialism and
it makes liberalism look like a religious movement.

You have to understand that anarchism is an entity unto itself. It
should not be sought after. No matter what you or your friend
think.

Answer 5

Anarchism is farther left than both. Socialism is part of liberalism.

Liberalism is a way of thinking.

Socialism is a type of government.

Anarchism is a result of a lack of government and law.

There is no real answer. You are comparing things that cannot be compared.

Answer 6

Liberalism promises anarchy because it is naive and trusting. Left wing socialism is anarchy. It is like a builders 'wrecking ball' to democracy, capitalism and the nation state.

Answer 7

in this country (britain) neither coz the socialists here make mad maggie look distinctly left of centre

the most liberals don't know whether it's easter or christmas

Politicians who needs em!

Answer 8

Neither.
True anarchists HATE socialists & liberals (& conservatives such as yourself) equally.
Anarchists are scarey people.

Answer 9

Liberalism is closer to socialism.

Anarchists can be either conservatives (ie: militias) or liberals (think protests).

Oh, and I think Producer gets my vote for best answer.

Answer 10

If you did not have such fascist intentions I'd have told you.