To the editor:

In response to Debbie Peterson’s letter of July 30:

Why should someone who believes in a political philosophy term themselves something other than what they are? If I said I was something other than an anarchist, I’d be lying to you and everyone else.

Anarchism’s history as a political philosophy started in the mid- 1800s, about the same time Karl Marx was defining a critique of capitalism. Anarchist thinker P.J. Proudhon took it one step further by offering that any social relationship in which hierarchy and exploitation are the basis of the relationship was inconsistent with individual and collective liberty and freedom.

Anarchists propose direct democracy in place of the state, so that any that want can be a part of the decision-making process in their neighborhoods, communities and workplaces. Anarchists do not want government to be more “representative” as you purport, but instead for representation to longer exist. The only one qualified to represent your opinions and thoughts is yourself.

I’m glad that holding certain political beliefs and holding on to what has been a “label” that stands for liberty and freedom for all are reasons enough in your mind for the FBI to come knocking on my door.

I, however, contend, that those calling themselves Republicans, especially in this day, deserve much more attention than us. Which “political label” has killed and exploited thousands? I know many more people spooked by politicians than they are by anarchists.

David Strano,

Lawrence