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An Anarchist’s Argument for Voting

By politicoid Jan 27 12

Constitution of The United States (We the People Banner)

Many anarchists do not vote, because they consider voting an exercise of force against others. But that’s only the case in certain instances.

Democracy is force. It implies that there is a legitimate ability to force others to act, simply because the majority agree. For instance, if the majority votes in favor of slavery, does that make slavery valid? No. This is why many anarchists do not vote, and when it comes to voting for government action, I agree.

However, since voting occurs, with or without our consent, and force is being used against us, voting in many cases can be reasonable. As an example, suppose that there is a vote concerning gun ownership. According to the non aggression principle, force against another is only reasonable if it is to stop force being initiated against us.  Those who are voting in favor of suppressing gun ownership are trying to use force against us. Therefore, voting against such an act is not an initiation of force, but rather self defense, and valid, within the scope of the NAP.

For this reason, voting can be acceptable. So long as you are voting against government intervention, and not for it, there is no reason not to vote. It is not an initiation of force. It is self defense.

Further Reading

  • Rights, an Update
  • Nationalism vs Patriotism: What is the Difference?

Categories: Drafts, Essays, Shorts, Twitter Response

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