ASN6: Direct Action as Conflicting Practices of Equality and Autonomy

As part of our series of articles drawn from the 6th International Anarchist Studies Network Conference, Nora Ziegler argues that direct action is animated by the conflicting ideals of equality and autonomy, and that this is a creative, necessary and welcome conflict.

‘It is not possible to establish equality by saying “we are all the same” or freedom by saying “we are all different”. Instead, when I hear you say “we are all the same”, I say “no I’m different” and when I hear “we are different” I say “but I am the same as you!” Only through these moments of conflict can my equality and freedom be established’.

Direct Action as Conflicting Practices of Equality and Autonomy