Reaction to Goldman Reading

One of the most interesting parts of the Goldman article on Anarchism was the definition she present for the concept. According to Goldman, Anarchism is "the philosophy of a new social order based on liberty unrestricted by man-made law; the theory that all forms of government rest on violence, and are therefore wrong and harmful, as well as unnecessary." I thought this definition was interesting because it states that government leads to violence and destruction, whereas many opposed to anarchism believe that this form of no government leads to violence and destruction.

Goldman believes that ignorance is the reason few understand or believe in the potential success of anarchism. The strive for power and supremacy combats the notion of anarchism, which allows each man to control himself and only himself. The economy is part of the source of opposition. The constant goal of gaining wealth constructs a hierarchy, which leaves some men with more power over others.

Goldman believes that ideas of religion that cause people to believe the are no more than a speck on Earth cause people to be less conscious of themselves. With superior powers controlling people such as God, government, and society, man has no reason to believe in the power of himself. Goldman believes that anarchism is the only philosophy that encourages man to be conscious of himself. Anarchy teaches unity, through the mere idea that men are not considered subordinates or slaves to superior powers.

Anarchism believes, that contrary to what government states, law is not natural. However, government has not survived its purpose in preventing crime, violence, force, and coercion. Goldman believes that crime is inevitable and government regulation only increases the inevitability of it. Under government people are responsible to follow strict rules, which increase the chance of deviation.