Anarchism: A Very Short Introduction

Colin Ward

OUP Oxford, 2004 - Political Science - 109 pages

The word 'anarchism' tends to conjure up images of aggressive protest against government, and - recently - of angry demonstrations against bodies such as the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund. But is anarchism inevitably linked with violent disorder? Do anarchists adhere to a coherent ideology? What exactly is anarchism?In this Very Short Introduction, Colin Ward considers anarchism from a variety of perspectives: theoretical, historical, and international, and by exploring key anarchist thinkers from Kropotkin to Chomsky. He looks critically at anarchism by evaluating key ideas within it, such as its blanket opposition to incarceration, and policy of 'no compromise' with the apparatus of political decision-making. Among the questions he ponders are: can anarchy ever function effectively as a political force?Is it more 'organized' and 'reasonable' than is currently perceived? Whatever the politics of the reader, Ward's argument ensures that anarchism will be much better understood after reading this book.

What people are saying

Review: Anarchism: A Very Short Introduction (Very Short Introductions #116)

User Review  - Mimi Amnell - Goodreads

I've been saying for years that there isn't any single political system that corresponds to my opinions. Well, I was wrong; it seems that I am an anarchist. I just did not know what the word meant (it ...

Review: Anarchism: A Very Short Introduction (Very Short Introductions #116)

User Review  - Ege - Goodreads

Very illuminating.. The perfect way to learn the essentials about something I always felt curious to know more about.. Turns out I fully agree with anarchism! It was refreshing to read about many ideas and trends that helped connect the dots in my mind.

About the author

Colin Ward is former editor of Anarchy. He has published many books, articles, and pamphlets, including Child in the City, Anarchy in Action, and Goodnight Campers.

Bibliographic information

• Title: Anarchism: A Very Short Introduction; Volume 116 of Very Short Introductions; Volume 116 of Vsi Series
• Author: Colin Ward
• Edition: illustrated
• Publisher: OUP Oxford, 2004
• ISBN: 0192804774, 9780192804778
• Length: 109 pages
• Subjects: Philosophy / Political; Political Science / History & Theory; Political Science / Political Ideologies / Anarchism; Political Science / Political Process / Political Advocacy