Violating Norms, Re-socializing Society

Abstract

This chapter employs the radical anarchist ideas of social order to analyze the systemic barriers to revolutionary transformation. As such, it synthesizes anarchist and sociological ideas regarding norms, socialization, and social change. First, the chapter considers how norms play a role in reinforcing inequality and hierarchy, key anarchist concerns. Second, socialization in hierarchical societies tends to insure wide-spread adoption and adherence to norms by replicating norm-obedience. Third, many theoretical problems stem from practices that deviate from normative behavior, including the notion of rebellion and deviance. Fourth, the chapter takes into account some of the great challenges that impede the creation of less hierarchical norms. Finally, it summarizes contemporary anarchist efforts to re-socialize people and presents these current and potential activities as vital, revolutionary efforts. Even though there are many pathways for anarchist action, there are still formidable barriers to anarchist movement analysis.Keywords: norms; radical anarchist ideas; rebellion; revolutionary transformation; social change; socialization; sociological ideas