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A Living Revolution: Anarchism in the Kibbutz Movement

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In this fascinating study of the kibbutz movement, James Horrox shows how the communards of the early kibbutzim in Palestine, contrary to the mainstream mythology of right-wing Zionists, were not intent on colonizing the land, but rather on building a left libertarian society, a "commune of communes" based on workers' self-management, direct democracy, gender equality, and Jewish-Arab cooperation. Influenced by the writings of anarchists like Peter Kropotkin and Gustav Landauer, these early kibbutzniks saw their intentional communities as the seeds of a stateless socialism which would eventually liberate all of humankind. Though later on the kibbutzim would largely become pawns of imperialist politicians, the socio-economic example provided by these cooperative experiments remain an inspiration for activists interested in participatory economics, communal living, and workplace democracy. In addition to providing a detailed history of the early kibbutz movement, Horrox also explores present-day Israeli anarchism and the rebirth of communal experiments in Israel. For anyone studying Jewish history, cooperative living, or libertarian socialism, I would highly recommend this wonderful and informative book. As you can tell, I really loved it, and without exaggerating, I can honestly say that this is one of the very best books I ever read.

This is a fantastic book - not only is it obviously well-researched and impeccably written, but it offers far more than a dry academic study. The book provides a comprehensive history from the conception of the kibbutz through to its decline in recent years, before examining the tentative shoots of regrowth that are beginning to surface, lending hope to the future for this unique movement. A truly interesting and inspiring book that is equally relevant for both the expert and the newcomer to this fascinating subject.