Darwinus anarchistus explodens: Science and the Legend of the Struggle for Life (Louise Michel)

Abstract

The reference to Darwin, topic at the end of the 19th century, is at the heart of a verbal sparring match about who will be (or will claim to be), in matters of struggle for life, on the right side of history. Louise Michel articulates the topoi of evolution, and alongside the topoi of evolution-revolution, with an imagination and a practice (of thought, of writing, of militant engagement). Her 1892 article “A propos des explosions” (“On explosions”, treating the assassination attempt of Ravachol) shows in a paradigmatic – but nonetheless sardonic and original-way her use and practice of scientific reference.