Anarchism In Nelson Mandela's Long Walk To Freedom

In Nelson Mandela 's book, Long Walk to Freedom, he stated the following: “When a man is denied the right to live the life he believes in, he has no choice but to become an outlaw.” Throughout history, we 've been faced with both oppression and anarchy. When oppression is forced upon society, your taking away not only their freedom, but ability to live life to the fullest and truly be happy (Sabino). On the other hand, many argue that an anarchy equals chaos, although, history proves otherwise. We 've seen stateless societies function without a leader, corrupt governments take advantage of their people, and philosophers from the Renaissance Era develop supporting theories on humans in a state of nature. Somalia is considered a perfect example

This misconception leads people to believe that anarchism is unobtainable and that its impossible to have a working society without a government (Stringham). There are multiple types of anarchist, but a key value amongst them all is that inequalities within society, especially when dealing with wealth and power, is immoral (Caplan). To an individualist, the ideal world is anarchic by nature. Behavioral norms will become tolerance and respect (Powell and Stringham). The majority of people who oppose constricting governments are generally pacifists. Morally, no one has the right to rule another and we should exercise personal autonomy ( Caplan). Without any restrictions, an individual is able to do as they please, with no coercive power over another (Powell and

Jean-Jacques Rousseau founded the social contract theory in 1762. A government is typically formed through an agreement between a sovereign and their appointed leader. Under the social contract theory, the government is responsible for the well-being of their citizens. When a government becomes oppressive, the contract becomes illegitimate or void and society is supposed to begin anew (Sabino). Rousseau also made a valid point by explaining how humans in a state of nature are inherently peaceful. He determined that our instincts are strictly to survive, therefore, humans tend to avoid confrontation and sustain life. He even went as far as to promote the “Golden Rule”, do unto others as others do unto you