Episode #195 - Could Anarcho-Capitalism be the solution to our problems? - Anarchism Pt. 4 (Rothbard, Friedman, Malice)
Episode #195 - Could Anarcho-Capitalism be the solution to our problems? - Anarchism Pt. 4 (Rothbard, Friedman, Malice)
This episode breaks down a key divide within anarchist thought: anarcho-communists versus anarcho-capitalists. It examines why historical anarchist movements have often failed and argues that lack of support—not failure of the ideas themselves—played a major role. The show then explores anarcho-capitalism through thinkers like David Friedman and Murray Rothbard, who propose free markets and private services as alternatives to state power, grounded in the non-aggression principle. Critics like Noam Chomsky and anarcho-communists argue that capitalism itself creates coercive hierarchies, concentrating power through wealth and media control. The episode ends by asking whether real change is still possible and encourages small, values-based actions as a way to push toward liberty, equality, and solidarity—setting up a future discussion with philosopher Slavoj Žižek.
Further Reading:
The Machinery of Freedom: Guide to a Radical Capitalism by David D. Friedman (1973)
For a New Liberty: The Libertarian Manifesto by Murray N. Rothbard (1973)
On Anarchism by Noam Chomsky (2013)
See the full transcript here
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