Anarchism is a political philosophy that advocates for the abolition of hierarchical systems of government and authority, aiming for a society based on voluntary cooperation, mutual aid, and decentralized decision-making. While anarchism shares these core principles, there are variations within the ideology that can be broadly categorized as left, right, and center anarchism. It is important to note that the terms “left,” “right,” and “center” in anarchism do not necessarily align with their traditional meanings in mainstream politics. Here’s a comparison of these different versions of anarchism:

Left Anarchism: Left anarchism, often referred to as libertarian socialism or anarcho-socialism, emphasizes the importance of social equality and collective ownership of resources. It advocates for the abolition of both the state and capitalism, viewing them as oppressive and exploitative systems. Left anarchists believe in establishing a society where power and wealth are distributed equally among individuals. They often promote workers’ self-management, cooperatives, and communal ownership of productive resources. Left anarchism also incorporates concerns about social justice, feminism, and ecological sustainability.

Right Anarchism: Right anarchism, also known as individualist anarchism or anarcho-capitalism, places a strong emphasis on individual liberty and free markets. It seeks to eliminate the state and advocates for a society where voluntary exchanges and private property rights prevail. Right anarchists argue that a truly free market, without state intervention, would lead to optimal outcomes and increased personal freedom. They believe that individuals should have the right to freely exchange goods and services without coercion, while relying on non-state mechanisms for governance and dispute resolution.

Center Anarchism: Center anarchism, sometimes referred to as anarcho-pluralism or anarcho-syndicalism, occupies a middle ground between left and right anarchism. It combines elements of both socialism and individualism, emphasizing the need for both social justice and individual freedom. Center anarchists advocate for a society where diverse forms of voluntary associations coexist, including workers’ syndicates, cooperatives, communes, and individual enterprises. They often promote direct democracy, decentralization of power, and participatory decision-making processes. Center anarchism seeks to balance the concerns of social equality and personal liberty.

While these three versions of anarchism share a rejection of hierarchical authority, their specific approaches and priorities differ. Left anarchism focuses on addressing social inequalities, promoting collective ownership, and opposing both the state and capitalism. Right anarchism emphasizes individual freedom, voluntary exchanges, and the benefits of free markets while rejecting state interference. Center anarchism seeks to strike a balance between social justice and personal liberty, promoting a pluralistic society with diverse voluntary associations. These distinctions reflect varying perspectives on the relationship between individuals, society, and economic organization within the broader framework of anarchism.