Eli5: What exactly is Anarcho-syndicalism?
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Anarcho-syndicalism is a political philosophy that combines anarchism and syndicalism. It advocates for a society organized by voluntary worker associations, such as unions, cooperatives, and collectives, instead of governments or bosses.
For example, in an anarcho-syndicalist society, workers in a factory might form a union to negotiate with the owners of the factory for better working conditions, higher wages, and more control over their work. The union might also provide services to the workers, such as legal support, healthcare, and education. The workers might also decide to take over the factory and run it democratically, without bosses or managers, and share the profits and decisions among themselves.
Anarcho-syndicalists also believe in direct action, which means taking action directly instead of relying on politicians or bureaucrats to make changes. This can include strikes, boycotts, sabotage, and other forms of protest to disrupt and challenge the existing order. For example, if the owners of the factory refuse to negotiate with the workers or treat them unfairly, the workers might go on strike to stop the production and demand their rights. They might also boycott the products of the factory, or sabotage the machinery, to pressure the owners to change their policies.
Anarcho-syndicalists believe that these actions can empower workers and create a new, more democratic and egalitarian society. They believe that workers should own and control the means of production, and that the distribution of wealth should be based on the principle of “to each according to their needs.” This means that everyone should have access to the resources and opportunities they need to live a fulfilling and dignified life, without exploitation or oppression.
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