Pirate utopias were described by the anarchist writer Hakim Bey in his work Temporary Autonomous Zone. He uses the example of secret islands once used for supply purposes for pirates as early forms of autonomous enclaves which existed beyond the realm and reach of governments. The mini-societies that emerged from these enclaves typify proto-anarchist societies in that they operated beyond mere laws and governance and, in their stead, embraced freedom.
The main thrust of his text is that these "islands" of freedom can be replicated today, though the sea as a whole remains largely indifferent. Indeed, he believes they should be replicated by all those who seek freedom, since to love freedom one must know freedom, and therefore one should take every step possible to make it a reality, albeit of a limited domain. His self-styled Temporary Autonomous Zones are the contemporary equivalent to the legendary pirate utopias of yore.
Feeds |
Contact