In “God and the State,” Mikhail Bakunin presents a provocative critique of both organized religion and the state, intertwining his anarchist philosophy with a fierce advocacy for individual freedom. Written in a passionate and articulate prose style, the work is a seminal text in 19th-century political theory, employing a dialectical approach to dismantle the oppressive structures of authority. Bakunin juxtaposes the notion of divine authority against human liberty, asserting that both God and the state serve as instruments of domination that stifle human potential and creativity, thereby advocating for a revolutionary societal transformation. Mikhail Bakunin, a prominent Russian revolutionary and political theorist, was deeply influenced by the tumultuous socio-political landscape of his time, including the rise of socialism and the failures of autocratic governance. His opposition to both state power and religious dogma stemmed from personal experiences of censorship and repression, which galvanized his life-long commitment to anarchist thought. Bakunin'Äôs extensive travels throughout Europe and interactions with other radical thinkers enabled him to develop a unique synthesis of ideas advocating for social change through the abolishment of authority. “God and the State” is essential reading for anyone interested in revolutionary theory, anarchism, or the philosophical underpinnings of freedom. Bakunin's incisive arguments remain remarkably relevant in contemporary debates on authority and personal autonomy, inviting readers to revisit the relationship between power and individual rights. This compelling work challenges the status quo and encourages a re-examination of what it means to be truly free.
