irish Anarchist Reading list

Workers Solidarity Movement Reading list

NOTE: This position paper is no longer used but we have left the listing on the web site as it is a good introduction to anarchism and the WSM

As members of an anarchist organisation it is important that we spread the ideas of anarchism, and convince people of the need for revolution. New and exiting members of the WSM are encouraged to read widely about anarchist history and politics. While a general knowledge about our ideas is useful, members are encouraged to develop their own particular interests. Discussion about our ideas is an ongoing process. In order to become more familiar with what anarchist stands for the following are recommended:

ABC of Anarchism by Alexander Berkman or Anarchism by Daniel Guerin
The Spanish Civil War - Anarchism in Action (WSM pamphlet)
Ireland and British Imperialism (WSM pamphlet)
Why the bosses system can't sort it out (article from Workers Solidarity no.33)
Position papers, perspectives and constitution of the WSM

The anarchist movement is a broad church in terms of its ideas and tendencies. While, historically, anarchism has been dominated by the class struggle tradition, there have also be 'individualist' and utopian currents, for example. The WSM was founded as a class struggle anarchist organisation. It identifies with the so-called 'Platformist' tradition in anarchism, which emerged in the 1920s in opposition to anarcho-syndicalism. In order to familiarise yourself with such oppositions, and about the divisions and debates, members are recommended to read:

Organisational Platform of the Libertarian Communists by Makhno et al.
Towards a Fresh Revolution by the 'Friends of Durruti'
Lessons of the Spanish Revolution by Vernon Richards
Policy statements of the WSM

-----These can all be bought/borrowed from the Branch Secretary-----

This paper is out of date - see the new WSM site for the more recent version