Since Brexit, the subject of secession has been brought to the forefront, once again. Previously, I hadn't given the subject much thought until I saw a substantial amount of advocacy on Fascistbook by many within the libertarian and anarchist community.
After much thought, I concluded that it is philosophically inconsistent for anarchists to be in favor of secession; also, I don't think the idea has been fully pondered, especially considering the potential ramifications that could come down from the federal government, if a state were to secede.
Here's a quick rundown of my arguments against it to prepare you for the interview I conducted with Gary Hunt:
- Voting is a violation of the twin axioms, and it would most likely be necessary for secession to happen (I say "likely," because the legality of secession is sort-of a grey area).
- It would be tyranny of the majority--what about the 49% in the Brexit vote that wanted to remain in the European Union? Secession is just another attempt at "forcing freedom."
- As we've discussed on LUA Radio, libertarians/anarchists do not like discussing use of force issues, and considering the history of secession, there would likely be backlash from the federal government; in short, the killing of government agents in self-defense may become necessary, if the attempt is going to be successful.
So yes, you read correctly: I am an anarchist AGAINST the idea of secession. Now, before crucifying me, please check out the interview in its entirety and please let me know what you think--am I completely off-base? Do you agree? Etc.
Here's what to expect: in the first three segments, Gary Hunt joins us to discuss the history of secession in the United States, the legality of it, and potential ramifications, if secession were to become a reality. In the final segment, I provide arguments against the strategy from a propertarian anarchist perspective.
Click here for the podcast, or view the video below, presented in an advertisement-free format.
This broadcast originally premiered on the July 24th, 2016 edition of Liberty Under Attack Radio.
Shane is the founder of Liberty Under Attack and host of LUA Radio, a live show that airs every Thursday and Sunday at 7pm CST on the Freedom Phalanx Radio Network. He is a free market anarchist committed to providing solutions to his listeners and readers, so that they can create the freedom they desire in their own lives, RIGHT NOW, despite the State.