Josiah Warren (1) (1798–1874)

True Civilization is a combination of three philosophies held by Warren, who was perhaps the first anarchist in America. These are (1) the absolute sovereignty and liberty of each individual, (2) a view of economics based on a cost only theory of value and equivalent labor base for money, and (3) some practical points toward establishing a society on his first two principles.

Although sometimes moving examples are given, his first point was later made more clearly in Stephen Andrews’ show more ‘Science of Society’. His second point is fatally flawed by his refusal to recognize interest on money or profit as legitimate factors. The third area produced some cooperative communities that had success only as long as their rural nature remained undisturbed and their numbers limited to a small group of enthusiastic supporters.

The book appears useful only in a complete study of the history of anarchist and co-operative movements. In that context (but not many others) it can provide some useful examples and analogies. show less