This is an important post about discoveries in complexity theory and the difference between anarchic systems (biological) and hierarchical systems (social). As you probably have figured out, I think that systems and institutions are where it's at for gaining understanding in sociology, economics and poli sci.
This is part three in a series explaining anarchism as the opposite of hierarchical structure and institutions. I suggest reading the whole series if you have the time. It's a good intro to anarchist thinking that blows away the myths and disinformation.
Links to parts one and two are provided in part three, linked to below. The first two parts are largely about the work of Peter Kropotkin, who was a life scientist as much as a social activist. As Orlov notes, Kropotkin was an anarchist, that is, anti-hierarchical based on his understanding of life science, and not a Communist, since he considered its organization to be hierarchical.
Club Orlov
In Praise of Anarchy, Part III
Dmitry Orlov
Club Orlov
In Praise of Anarchy, Part III
Dmitry Orlov
the day that anarchy can put forth a first tenent of nonviolence, then it will be heard more.
ReplyDeletehowever, it cannot put forth any tenents so others do it instead.
Goog,
ReplyDeleteSee your point where often when these Anarchists show up at the G7 or IMF meetings or where ever, windows get broken, fires, etc...
But one thing I see is that it looks like their organization is pretty much a meritocracy... probably individuals take on hierarchical leadership roles (perhaps looks like unknowingly?) in the areas they are given talent in.
But a key thing there is that the ones who do not possess the talent in that area recognize this and defer to the ones that possess the talent and subject themselves to them in that area.
I dont think institutions work this way to their detriment... there someone is appointed "the boss" and often they dont know WTF they are doing... this is like in the area of economic policy setting institutions today... the people who staff the institutional positions are morons in that area...
Roger would probably make the point that in nature, you see these types of mistakes cleaned up pretty quickly...
There is a saying currently within the youth that a person is "a boss" but it is used as a term of endearment. Often when someone exhibits a great talent. The kids will say: "He's a boss!" Perhaps this is exhibiting a natural form of talent/leadership spotting by the kids...
Look at the Yankees without Jeter here... Jeter is "a boss"...
rsp,