Proudhon

Pierre-Joseph Proudhon was a self-taught French printer and the first person to call himself an "anarchist," earning him the title of the "father of anarchism."

He described anarchism as a system without a master or ruler and introduced mutualism, which bridges individualist and collectivist anarchism. Proudhon wrote several influential books, including "What is Property?" (1840), "System of Economic Contradictions" (1846), "General Idea of the Revolution in the Nineteenth Century" (1851), and "Justice in the Revolution and the Church" (1858).

Proudhon opposed collectivism because he believed it undermined personal freedom. He criticized communism and trade unions for the same reason.

He famously stated that “Property is theft,” although his view on private property was nuanced. He rejected private property as a means for capitalists to exploit others through profits, rent, and interest. For Proudhon, private property was illegitimate when it granted one person power over another.

In this regard, he was anti-capitalist but also believed individuals should have the right to own a home and have enough land or tools for work. He argued that a person needs a certain amount of property to maintain their freedom and livelihood. His mutualism was a counter to collectivism, especially communism, which he felt took away essential rights for individual freedom. He claimed that private property created social inequalities and protected the wealthy while oppressing the poor. He also saw private property as a major cause of state oppression since laws exist to uphold property rights.

To address the issues related to private property and collectivism, Proudhon proposed mutualism. This system aims to blend the positive aspects of private and collective ownership while avoiding their downsides. In a mutualist framework, independent producers or groups freely exchange goods and services through fair contracts, ensuring that value is determined by the labour involved. Producers can also access non-profit loans from a National or People’s Bank to fund businesses, promoting a more mutual economy. Unlike large property holdings, mutualism supports small private ownership based on use or possession, helping individuals maintain their livelihoods and independence. This system operates without the need for government or union involvement.

Proudhon did not see mutualism as a path to complete equality, as those who work hard would earn more than those who do not. He believed human nature is both selfish and social. People act in their own interests but are also shaped by their communities. Proudhon thought that humanity's ability to think rationally and grow morally would lead people to challenge political and religious authorities for their freedom.