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To what extent do anarchists have a common view of an ideal society? You must use appropriate thinkers you have studied to support your answer. - Edexcel - A-Level Politics - Question 3 - 2021 - Paper 2
Question 3
To what extent do anarchists have a common view of an ideal society? You must use appropriate thinkers you have studied to support your answer.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:To what extent do anarchists have a common view of an ideal society? You must use appropriate thinkers you have studied to support your answer. - Edexcel - A-Level Politics - Question 3 - 2021 - Paper 2
Step 1
Points of Agreement
Answer
Anarchists generally agree that an ideal society will be without a state. They emphasize that in such a society, the principle of liberty will prevail. The fundamental consensus among anarchists is that individuals must have the freedom to govern themselves without external authority.
Moreover, all strands of anarchism advocate for the importance of liberty in their ideal society, suggesting that freedom from oppression and authoritarian structures is crucial. Anarchists also commonly reject any forms of coercive relationships, asserting that the ideal society would prioritize mutual aid and cooperation, fundamentally based on the principles of freedom and equality.
Step 2
Points of Disagreement
Answer
Despite shared beliefs, there are significant disagreements among anarchists regarding the ideal economy. Anarchists differ on the economic models that should be adopted; for instance, some argue for market solutions, while others advocate for a more communal or collectivist approach. The economic aspect remains a contentious point of debate within anarchist thought.
Additionally, disagreements extend to the importance of individual autonomy versus collective responsibility. Thinkers like Stirner propose the idea that individuals might be slaves to the collective, while others like Proudhon emphasize collaboration between individuals and collectives to achieve autonomy. These differing views illustrate the complexity and diversity within anarchism regarding how to achieve an ideal society.