Guest Post: Agorism
The ALS is a very broad and diverse organisation, representing many strands of pro-freedom thought. While I know many of our more committed members would be aware of it, one movement I noticed we haven’t heard much about in Australia is agorism, which at its simplest is the use of black markets to promote free market ideals. A friend of mine here agreed to write up a brief post for us outlining the agorist case, which I think those of you unaware of the movement would find interesting. (As always , I must preface this by saying that I do not necessarily endorse or agree with this post).
Agorism – Peter J. Neiger
While idea of anarchy is far from a new one there are revolutionary developments and strategies being debated and theorized constantly. One of the newer strategies is the use of counter-economics or Agorism to bring about the desired change.
To ensure we are on the same page I feel like one quick definition is necessary. When I refer to Anarchy this is does not mean chaos, I am referring to the original Greek translation of anarchia meaning “without a ruler”. While there are some variations of anarchists most believe that change cannot happen through the current system, this is what separates them in method from libertarians, min-archists, etc.
Now the term Agorism comes from the Greek word agora meaning “market” and agorists call for revolutionary change by utilizing the black market. By operating in this counter-economy an individual can help deteriorate the power of the state and builds relationships based on trust and mutual gain instead of coercion.
Most people participate in counter-economics without ever realizing it. Every time you pay a neighborhood kid under the table to baby sit or receive a tip from a customer that you don’t report to the government you have participated.
Agorist’s view entrepreneurs, innovators and risk-takers as the strength of the free market and are invaluable. On the same note though, a pro-state businessman who attempts to use the government for his own personal profit is the center of evil. Read more »
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