People can move from generalized discontent to a search for some more formal analysis of what is wrong with capitalism. Or you can move from anarchism to socialism or the reverse. Or from direct action to wonky incrementalism (or the reverse).
There is also the idea of anarchist-inspired disruption of oppressive, centralized institutions, which I take to be Chomsky's position. On the other hand, if you work within such an institution you are focused on some kind of ameliorative, incrementalist approach.
The formal political system -- the parties, PACs, 'big media,' big advocate groups -- is a swamp that does not invite involvement, except as a way to make a living. So for me 'anarchism' in the sense of extra-parliamentary direct action, vigorous criticism of the political system (Dems included), makes a lot of sense.
On Mon, Oct 17, 2011 at 8:06 AM, Doug Henwood <dhenwood at panix.com> wrote:
>
> On Oct 17, 2011, at 3:48 AM, SA wrote:
>
> > I feel like I've recently encountered, by random chance, a series of
> people who've said they were once anarchists but gradually "grew out of"
> anarchism and moved in a more Marxist direction.
>
> I grew out of libertarianism, but that's different, right?
>
> Doug
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