Anarchy Explained to My Father

Translated from the French by John Gilmore. Anarchy Explained to My Father (first published by Lux Éditeur in 2014 as L'anarchie expliquée à mon père) is a provocative and accessible discussion of the revolutionary mode of thought that rejects all forms of domination and seeks, in the words of Louise Michel, "order through harmony." Francis Dupuis Déri, a professor of political science and a radical anarchist, reveals through dialogue with his father the deeply humanistic and peaceful roots of anarchism. The discussion shows that beyond the caricature of anarchists as proponents of chaos and violence is a movement based on ideals of equality, co operation, and autonomy. The wide ranging conversation covers the ideas of classic writers such as Proudhon, Bakunin, and Goldman, as well as contemporary thinkers like Taiaiake Alfred, Patricia Hill Collins, and Randall Amster; the main flavours of anarchism, from anarcho syndicalism to anarcha feminism; anarchist views on oppressive systems like the state, capitalism, and patriarchy; the tremendous achievements that anarchist activists have contributed to, such as labour unions and eight hour work days; and the recent resurgence of anarchism in protest movements and activist groups around the world. With temperatures rising and authoritarianism flourishing near and far, Anarchy Explained to My Father is a timely initiation to a way of thinking that's more relevant than ever.