Society Despite the State

This book offers a critical perspective on the state's influence, challenging readers to rethink political structures and explore alternatives through a post-statism lens.

In Society Despite the State, authors Anthony Ince and Gerónimo Barrera de la Torre present a critical examination of the state's role in shaping social and spatial relations. Drawing on anarchist, decolonial, and indigenous thought, they challenge the dominant narratives that define our understanding of the state and its implications for society. The authors argue that the logic of the state has become so embedded in our lives that it often goes unchallenged, leading to a limited perspective on our political realities.

The book offers a radical political geography approach that seeks to disrupt the state-centric ways of thinking prevalent in contemporary discourse. By exposing the vulnerabilities and contradictions of state logic, Ince and Barrera de la Torre invite readers to explore alternatives that transcend traditional frameworks. They incorporate diverse voices that resonate with Western anarchism while also expanding beyond its confines, creating a rich tapestry of thought that encourages critical engagement.

Society Despite the State serves as a call to action for radicals and scholars alike, urging them to adopt a 'post-statism' perspective. This framework provides new intellectual tools to understand and confront the pervasive influence of statism on our political imaginations. By de-centering the state's logics, the authors illuminate pathways for re-envisioning our social and political landscapes, ultimately fostering a more inclusive and expansive understanding of society.