anarcho-syndicalism

A political movement that urges the abolition of government and the collectivization of industry. Anarcho-syndicalists believe that such a change can come about only with "One Big Union" of all workers (syndicalism is from the French word for union). Anarcho-syndicalists tend to draw a distinction between trade unions and industrial unions.

The IWW provides an example of anarcho-syndicalism. Also, the CNT of Spain--one of the factions that fought in the Spanish Civil War.

The combination of anarchism (decentralized decision-making) with syndicalism (trade unionism). The approach followed tends toward that of localized democracy in the workplace, with disputes settled by discussion, federation, and an emphasis on self-determination such that decisions are made by those most affected by the decision.

Rather than going on strikes, protesting government policies, or electing new representatives, anarcho-syndicalists favor more direct action, like "firing" their employers by no longer allowing them into the workplace, changing the locks if necessary, and assuming control over the day-to-day running of their businesses.

Such assertion of freedom from the orders of the chairman and the board bear many remarkable similarities to the American Declaration of Independence - except on a smaller scale (although the wealth and size of many modern corporations rival that of the original 13 colonies).