As for the “success of Anonymous”, I’m referring to their ability at getting the word out about Scientology. Before Anonymous’ protests there weren’t too many people in the mainstream who had any idea of what this group was about. Now more people are aware of their existence and history, and more are speaking out.

Just like everything else, activism via working alone or organizing, has it’s pros and cons. After what has happened recently with the protests at the RNC (see Klintron’s post above), I think we really do need to have this discussion. As a matter of fact, I now think it’s imperative. “Organize at your own risk”, indeed.

While there is the potential for corruption in any organized group, working solitary gives the impression of a lone “lunatic”. I really don’t have a solution, but thought that bringing this issue up may make some mavericks think of one (or a few). And though much of this can’t really be discussed on a public blog (obviously), I think the question of “what are some alternatives?” is a valid one. Maybe amongst our peers and acquaintances we can “bump heads”, and come across some new ideas.

As to a SUCCESSFUL revolution, that’s a different question. It requires a perfect storm, it does. Though we as a people are mired in apathy, I think conditions in this country are headed towards a fruitful breeding ground for revolution.

Our government’s actions to move towards a police state could be said to anticipate economic distress and the potential for violent uprising that a strong, angry populace possesses. The war on terror starts with muslim fanatics, moves on to immigrants, then comes the radical progressives (that would be us, folks), all the dangerous thinker types. Cleansing has a long history, and our government is setting up for it nicely. Without the rhetorical and logistical framework they now have in place, those in power would be getting FUCKED in the hard times ahead. As it is, they will just blow up some shit and blame us for it, and the ignorant scared masses will eat it up in the hopes of security, in the hopes that they’ll have enough to eat and a roof over their heads.

Organize at your own peril.

Because Marx and company were wrong. Oppression does not lead naturally and necessarily to rebellion, rebellion does not flow naturally and necessarily from oppression. Either can exist for centuries, for millenia, without the other. It is hindsight and not fact that makes the two seem connected.

“The success of Anonymous? protests against Scientology has given us a new model.”

What success is that?

“I think the questions this group asks are a good starting point for a dialogue.”

Agreed.