Meaning: Herbert Read, a prominent poet, and anarchist, presents a thought-provoking perspective on the nature of modern anarchism in the quote, "I am not going to claim that modern anarchism has any direct relation to Roman jurisprudence; but I do claim that it has its basis in the laws of nature rather than in the state of nature." This quote delves into the philosophical underpinnings of anarchism, contrasting it with the traditional concept of the state of nature and positing its foundation in the laws of nature. In unpacking this quote, it is essential to explore the historical and philosophical context of anarchism, as well as the implications of anchoring it in the laws of nature.

Anarchism, as a political and philosophical ideology, advocates for the absence of a coercive state and the voluntary association of individuals in a society based on mutual aid, voluntary cooperation, and decentralized forms of organization. It has roots in various historical and intellectual traditions, including the writings of political philosophers such as Pierre-Joseph Proudhon, Mikhail Bakunin, and Peter Kropotkin. These thinkers have contributed to the development of anarchist thought, emphasizing the critique of authority, hierarchy, and the centralized state.

In the quote, Read distinguishes modern anarchism from Roman jurisprudence, signaling a departure from conventional legal systems and the structures of governance established by ancient societies. By disavowing a direct connection to Roman jurisprudence, Read suggests that anarchism is not derived from or beholden to traditional legal frameworks. Instead, he asserts that its basis lies in the laws of nature. This assertion prompts an exploration of the concept of the "laws of nature" and its significance in understanding the foundational principles of anarchism.

The notion of the laws of nature has a rich intellectual history, dating back to ancient philosophical inquiries and continuing through the Enlightenment period with thinkers like John Locke and Jean-Jacques Rousseau. The laws of nature are often associated with natural law theory, which posits that there are inherent principles and rights that govern human conduct and are discoverable through reason and observation of the natural world. In the context of anarchism, grounding its basis in the laws of nature suggests a commitment to principles that transcend man-made laws and institutions, aligning with a vision of inherent rights and moral principles that guide human interactions and social organization.

Furthermore, Read contrasts the laws of nature with the state of nature, a concept famously explored by political philosopher Thomas Hobbes. In Hobbes' formulation, the state of nature represents a hypothetical pre-social condition in which individuals exist without a governing authority, leading to a "war of all against all" and the necessity of a sovereign power to maintain order and prevent chaos. By juxtaposing the laws of nature with the state of nature, Read implies that anarchism is not predicated on a return to a chaotic or lawless state but rather on a harmonious alignment with natural laws that promote cooperation, freedom, and justice.

In analyzing Read's quote, it is essential to consider the broader implications of anchoring anarchism in the laws of nature. This positioning aligns with the moral and ethical dimensions of anarchist thought, emphasizing the intrinsic value of individual autonomy, voluntary cooperation, and non-coercive relationships. It also underscores a rejection of the monopolization of power and the imposition of authority by the state, as the laws of nature are perceived as universal and transcendent, not subject to the dictates of any specific political institution.

Moreover, Read's assertion invites reflection on the relationship between human society and the natural world, as the laws of nature encompass not only ethical principles but also ecological considerations. Anarchist thought often intersects with environmentalism, advocating for sustainable and harmonious interactions with the natural environment, and the emphasis on the laws of nature further reinforces this ecological dimension of anarchism.

In conclusion, Herbert Read's quote provides a thought-provoking insight into the philosophical underpinnings of modern anarchism, positioning it as rooted in the laws of nature rather than the state of nature. Through this perspective, Read challenges conventional notions of legal and political authority, emphasizing the moral, ethical, and ecological dimensions of anarchism. By anchoring anarchism in the laws of nature, he articulates a vision of a society based on voluntary cooperation, individual autonomy, and harmony with the natural world. This quote serves as a catalyst for deeper exploration and critical reflection on the fundamental principles of anarchism and its relationship to broader philosophical and ethical inquiries.