Proudhon’s theory of mutualism: a critique of capitalism and authoritarianism

Mutualism is an economic and social theory that emphasises voluntary cooperation, reciprocity, and the fair exchange of goods and services. It advocates for a society where individuals and communities engage in cooperative ownership, decentralising and collectively managing productive resources like land or tools for the benefit of all. Such systems would be free from central authority and capitalist exploitation.While property itself is not inherently exploitative in this theory, ownership of tools or land is acceptable, provided it does not lead to exploitation of others.Unlike capitalism, which profits from labour exploitation, mutualism envisions a system where individuals and communities own resources for personal and collective benefit. It also promotes the idea of workers controlling the means of production through cooperatives or other voluntary associations, ensuring that production is driven by need, not profit. This model seeks to eliminate hierarchical power structures and promote equality and fairness in economic relations.

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Origins of the theoryThe term “mutualism” was coined by French philosopher Pierre-Joseph Proudhon in the mid-19th century as part of his broader critique of capitalism and authoritarianism. While Proudhon is often remembered for his declaration, “Property is theft!” in his seminal work What is Property? (1840), his philosophy was more complex. Mutualism was not a call for the outright abolition of property but for its reimagining into a system that serves collective well-being and fairness.Proudhon was influenced by a secret society of weavers, known as the ‘Mutualists’, who he encountered during his time in Lyon in 1843. These workers advocated for worker-led cooperative production, envisioning a society where factories and resources could be run by associations of workers. They believed in transforming society through peaceful economic action rather than violent revolution, challenging the centralised political traditions of Jacobinism. Deeply inspired by their ideas, Proudhon adopted the term “mutualism” as a tribute to these working-class visionaries. His adaptation of their ideals sought to build a decentralised society where cooperation and reciprocity replaced exploitation and domination.Mutualism and property