Anarchism and the State

Marxist and Anarchist Theory

What distinguishes Marxism from Anarchism? Why two theories, by what are they distinguished from each other, what are their relative merits, and which of the two theories, or which combination of their ideas, is the best tool for fighting capitalism and the bourgeois state? Such a process of questioning is necessary for any revolutionary, as an attempt to grasp and conquer revolutionary theory.

Marx versus Bakunin - Part Three

After the defeat of the Paris Commune different ultra-left and opportunist tendencies emerged within the First International, who intrigued against the General Council and attempted to use the name of the International for their own ends. This was finally resolved with the expulsion of these elements with strict powers established for the General Council and clear rules on how the International was to be run.

Marx versus Bakunin - Part Four

In 1872 in response to the intrigues of Bakunin and his secret society, the Hague conference of the First International adopted a resolution prohibiting any organization with an independent programme to function within the body of the International and proceeded to expel Bakunin and his supporters, putting an end to the internal diatribe and intrigues and establishing the principles upon which the organisation would function.

Marx versus Bakunin - Part Five

At the Hague congress of the First International Bakunin was finally expelled, provoking the wrath of the anarchists and like-minded people, some of which walked out of the organisation, like the Blanquists. At the same time, the opportunists such as the English trade union leaders lined up with the ultra-left in demanding greater autonomy for the local sections, all of course complaining about the authoritarianism of Marx and the General Council.

Marx versus Bakunin - Part Two

The Paris Commune put to the test the different currents inside the First International. Its subsequent defeat created an atmosphere where all kinds of demoralised elements thrived. Intrigue was on the order of the day. This led to a questioning of centralised leadership, of the very role of the leadership. Marx and Engels answered all this fully.

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