Democratic Confederalism

I have never quite understood the life changing magnetism the Communist Manifesto has on some people, until this book. Let me clarify, this is NOT a communist ideology but this is a manifesto.Ocalan has been in solitary confinement as a political prisoner for decades now. He was instrumental in organizing and leading communist guerilla fighters but renounced communism while in prison. His ideas have been the foundation of a very real democratic experiment in Rojava with the Syrian Kurds. In the context of big history, I think this experiment is on par with the "American Experiment" in terms of its leap forward towards a more democratic and just society. They definitely are not perfect but I feel our abandonment of Rojava under the Trump Administration is up there with things like the destruction of the library of Alexandria.I have no doubt this small book will find its place among one of the most important books of human history.

Abdullah Öcalan is perhaps one of the finest revolutionary minds of the 21st century. A student of Murray Bookchin, Öcalan sets forth a political system that is perhaps more sensible in today’s age. A genius, political prisoner Abdullah Öcalan’s work should be further studied and appreciated in the West. A quick read, but an impactful one.

An important, but not easy read. Perhaps Ocalan hasn't been best served by his translators. This is a short book, but dense and the meanings are not instantly clear. However, it should be viewed in the full context of Ocalan's works - many of which are more accessible.The works as a whole represent a significant contribution to current political philosophy. They are essential reading for an understanding of the Kurdish struggle for autonomy and freedom from oppression.The philosophy of democratic confederalism may well offer insights into the solution of many of the problems currently dogging western democracies - and indeed, into the pressing problem of political governance of the globalised economy.

Ocalan provides a short but succinct analysis and ideas for a peaceful future in the Near East, North Africa and maybe even in the Balkans. Our diversity can be our strength.

good alternative to communism and the republican system, similar in ways to early American ideal but probably wouldn't work transferred into present american and european situations but best for Middle East.

So unless you want a binding job you could do yourself at Kinko's, save your money you broke post-anarchist wingnut you.

This was an interesting book mainly to see what he was teaching. It is a translation so it isn't too smooth. I got tired of it about half way through.

An interesting and relevant manifesto by a brilliant mind. A true revolutionary.