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To what extent does anarchism have a coherent view on the economy? You must use appropriate thinkers you have studied to support your answer and consider both sides in a balanced way. - Edexcel - A-Level Politics - Question 3 - 2019 - Paper 2
Question 3
To what extent does anarchism have a coherent view on the economy? You must use appropriate thinkers you have studied to support your answer and consider both sides... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:To what extent does anarchism have a coherent view on the economy? You must use appropriate thinkers you have studied to support your answer and consider both sides in a balanced way. - Edexcel - A-Level Politics - Question 3 - 2019 - Paper 2
Step 1
Agreement: Coherent Economic Viewpoint
Answer
Anarchists share a fundamental opposition to the continuation of the state in all its forms. They advocate for an economic system that operates without state regulation, as illustrated by thinkers like Goldman.
Moreover, many anarchists argue that economic order arises spontaneously. This suggests a belief in the market's capability to self-regulate if left unrestricted, indicating a coherent economic viewpoint which emphasizes voluntary cooperation among individuals.
Collectivist anarchists further support this notion by arguing for decentralized economies that are organized through voluntary associations, catering to collective needs and aspirations.
Step 2
Disagreement: Diverse Traditions within Anarchism
Answer
However, there are distinct anarchist traditions that present differing perspectives on the economy. For instance, individualists differ notably from collectivists regarding economic structures and relationships.
Collective anarchists support mutual aid and cooperation among members, proposing that society can function best with shared ownership of resources, in contrast to capitalist systems that prioritize private property.
Furthermore, while many collectivist anarchists advocate for a future where economies are based on small-scale communities, they recognize that not all resources need to be centrally controlled, leading to variations in economic models among anarchists.
Step 3
Conclusion: Coherent or Incoherent?
Answer
From the analysis of both positions, we can conclude that anarchists have a coherent view on the economy, albeit with significant variations across different strands of thought. The foundational belief across anarchism is the opposition to state economic intervention, which underpins their proposed economic frameworks. Yet, the diversity in interpretations and methodologies reflects that while anarchism does have coherent economic principles, it is not monolithic. This complexity denotes a rich tapestry of economic perspectives within the anarchist tradition.