* Anarchism is the idea that we should organise society in a non-hierarchical way without bosses. We don't want to live in a society that is divided into order-givers and order-takers. We stand for a real socialism based on freedom and democracy.
* A lot of people know that hierarchies and authoritarianism are bad for us. Remember school? Think about what its like at work? You're told to do something - so you must do it! But must you? Anarchists recognise that hierarchy and authoritarianism exist to serve one useful end - the efficient exploitation of workers. But there is another way to do things - society could be organised through workplace and community councils, through grassroots democracy, from the bottom up.
* A lot of people accept that there's a need for change, but not many have any real idea of how change can come about. Anarchists want a revolution! We don't think General Elections make a wit of difference. When was the last time voting in a General Election made any difference? Remember the anarchist slogan Whoever Gets In The Government Still Rules. Anarchists stand for direct action and solidarity among and between workers. This is how we see change coming - through our own efforts, by our own strength!
* When people hear about anarchism, they often say 'That's a great idea but would it work?' Wouldn't it? Well what's so great about the present set up? Rents and house prices have gone through the roof. Wages and pay have limped along while profits have soared. Everyone is working harder, but the gap between the rich and poor has widened massively in the last while. And what about corruption in high places? And politicians and brown paper bags? Racism against Travellers and asylum-seekers? The truth is that the present system is rotten and we need to change it. Would it really be that difficult to do better than what we have now?
* There's plenty more that could be said about anarchism, so on the other side of this leaflet you'll find a list of places and addresses where you can get more information. Books, newspapers and pamphlets are all available from anarchists here in Ireland. But remember if you like what you read get in contact now. There's a world to win.
At the end of September some 20,000 of the world's financial leaders will converge on Prague for an IMF/World Bank summit. This will be a huge event for all those who support capitalism and exploitation. But right across the world, massive protests are being prepared by those opposed to the summit and what it represents - more exploitation, more environmental damage, more inequality.
Here in Ireland, protests are planned for Cork, Dublin and Belfast. In Cork, preparations are underway to make S26 a day to remember. Find out more from the WSM at 4503262 or email: cork_wsm@yahoo.com. Visit the S26 web site at http://more.at/global
* IN CORK: For information on upcoming meetings and events contact the [Cork WSM]
* ANARCHIST BOOKS: A wide range of books on anarchist ideas and actions are available. Send an SAE to the Anarchist Bookservice, PO Box 1528, Dublin 8.
* ON THE INTERNET: If you have access to the Internet visit the WSM web site at http://surf.to/anarchism Join Ainriail, the Irish anarchist news list by sending the message subscribe ainriail to lists@tao.ca
* WSM AND WORKERS SOLIDARITY: To find out about anarchism in Ireland or to get Workers Solidarity, the Irish anarchist newspaper, send an SAE to WSM, PO Box 1578, Dublin 8.