AnCap ≠ Anarchism

Anarcho-capitalism is fundamentally incompatible with the principles of anarchism. Anarchism, as a political philosophy, has always been inherently anti-capitalist, rooted in the belief that all forms of hierarchical power structures, including capitalism, should be dismantled in favor of a society based on voluntary cooperation, mutual aid, and self-management. The foundational documents and theories of anarchism, as well as the historical practices of anarchist movements, underscore this stance.

The very essence of anarchism opposes the inherent inequalities and exploitative relationships produced by capitalism. Anarchism seeks to abolish private property (in the sense of capitalist ownership of the means of production, not personal possessions) and class society, both of which are cornerstones of capitalism. Anarcho-capitalism, on the other hand, advocates for the unfettered operation of capitalism, merely removing the state from the equation, which it perceives as the primary source of coercive power. This perspective fails to address the power dynamics and exploitation inherent within capitalist economic relations themselves.

Historically, anarchist movements have actively fought against both the state and capitalist systems. From the collectivization efforts during the Spanish Civil War to the writings of influential anarchists like Emma Goldman, Peter Kropotkin, and Mikhail Bakunin, there is a clear and consistent rejection of capitalism. These figures and many others within the anarchist tradition have argued that capitalism, by its very nature, creates hierarchies and inequalities that are antithetical to anarchist principles of equality, freedom, and voluntary association.

Moreover, the claim of "anarcho"-capitalists to the anarchist label disregards the historical and theoretical context in which anarchism has developed. Anarchism is not merely about the absence of government; it is about opposing all forms of domination and hierarchy, including those produced by capitalist economic relations. By ignoring the capitalist sources of oppression and inequality, anarcho-capitalism represents a significant departure from the core principles of anarchism.

In summary, while anarcho-capitalism uses the term "anarchism" to describe its opposition to the state, its support for capitalism fundamentally conflicts with the anti-capitalist, anti-hierarchical, and liberatory goals of anarchism. The inclusion of capitalism within its framework makes anarcho-capitalism inherently incompatible with the principles and goals of true anarchism.