But there is still the delicate point of participation in elections. Should anarchists vote? If so, should they form a party? For my part, like many anarchists, I think not. To vote is to take part in the organization of the false democracy that has been set up forcefully by the middle class. No matter whether one votes for the left or the right, the situation is the same. Again, to organize a party is necessarily to adopt a hierarchical structure and to wish to have a share in the exercise of power. We must never forget to what degree the holding of political power corrupts. When the older socialists and unionists achieved power in France in 1900-1910, one might argue that they became the worst enemies of unionism. We have only to recall Clemenceau and Briand. This is why, in a movement that is very close to anarchy, that of ecologists, I am always opposed to political participation. I am totally hostile to the Greens movement, and in France we have seen very well what are the results of the political participation of the Ecolos (environmentalists) in elections. The movement has been split into several rival groups, three leaders have declared their hostility publicly, debates about false issues (e.g., of tactics) have clouded the true aims, money has been spent on electoral campaigns, and nothing has been gained. Indeed, the participation in elections has greatly reduced the influence of the movement. The political game can produce no important changes in our society and we must radically refuse to take part in it. Society is far too complex. Interests and structures are far too closely integrated into one another. We cannot hope to modify them by the political path. The example of multinationals is enough to show this. In view of global economic solidarity the left cannot change the economy of a country when it is in power. Those who say that a global revolution is needed if we are not simply to change the government are right.

–Jacques Ellul, Anarchy and Christianity

I don’t necessarily claim the anarchist title, but nevertheless, much of what Ellul says in this passage is compelling and obliges me think deeply about political elections. However, after much thought I’ve come to the conclusion that I will most likely vote today. Despite my skepticism and tendency to demonize and stereotype large hiearchial systems, at this point in my life I do believe that Governments can and do make a positive difference in peoples lives. I honestly feel that I continuously need to remind myself that these faceless and soulless systems are, after all, made up of people (insert politician joke here).

Optimistically though, I’d like to think that most of the people who get into politics have the same goal as the Church, i.e. to reduce suffering in the world. Sadly, as folks like Žižek would say, I’m fully aware that my vote is in a sense just a superficial release valve mechanism that keeps me docile and tame, allowing me to feel like I’m making a difference in the world while the real problem remains unattended to. But if by voting for a candidate who is in some small way able to reduce suffering through a governmental position, then I feel that I should participate and vote for that person.

Sorry Jacques, don’t worry I still love you!

Collage by Mark McClure

Tags:anarchismCollage by Mark McClureJacques EllulpoliticsvotingZizek