anarchoprimitivism

Anarchoprimitivism is a political philosophy that critiques civilization and advocates for a return to pre-agricultural, hunter-gatherer ways of life. Proponents argue that civilization, with its hierarchies, domestication, and technological advancements, is inherently oppressive and destructive to both humanity and the environment. They view the development of agriculture as a fundamental turning point that led to social stratification, exploitation, and ecological damage.

The core tenets of anarchoprimitivism include the rejection of technology, industry, and the state. Anarchoprimitivists believe that these elements are not neutral tools but are intrinsically linked to domination and control. Instead, they propose a decentralized, egalitarian society based on voluntary cooperation and direct, unmediated relationships with nature. This vision often involves a dismantling of all existing social structures and a re-establishment of small, nomadic or semi-nomadic communities.

While often associated with anarchism, anarchoprimitivism is a distinct strain that focuses specifically on the critique of civilization itself, rather than solely on challenging state power within a civilized framework. Critics of anarchoprimitivism often point to the practical difficulties of implementing such a societal shift, the potential for violence and hardship in a return to a pre-civilized state, and the romanticization of a past that may not have been as idyllic as depicted. Despite these criticisms, the philosophy continues to influence certain radical environmental and anti-civilization movements.