As if already free

Anthropology and Activism After David Graeber

about the book

David Graeber (1961–2020) was an American anthropologist and anarchist activist, who left us with new ways to understand humankind. This collection of new writing brings together his insights into one book, showing how deeply his work continues to influence us today.

Graeber’s writing resonates with both scholars and activists looking to shake things up. The impact of his work is broad in scope, from birth to banking, and he picks open social hierarchy and political power to expose what really makes human society tick.

In today’s neoliberal world, we can turn to his legacy to provide a way for us to understand what went wrong, and how to fix it. This collection of writings is both an introduction to his life and works, a guide to his key ideas, and an inspiring example of how anthropologists are continuing to use his work today.

Praise for As If Already Free

The essays in this book bear testimony to the power of David Graeber’s contagious magic. He had the ability to inspire those who came in touch with him to think anew, and optimistically, about the future of the human condition.  He showed that anthropology can be used as a method for discovering life’s many wonders and possibilities. In this stimulating collection of ‘slow cooked’ essays, the authors reflect on the enduring enchantment of Graeber’s ideas.  They remind us that there is always hope in today’s troubled world and that the activist pursuit of hope can be fun as well as rewarding. (By Chris Gregory, Emeritus Professor, ANU).
Chris Gregory
Emeritus Professor, ANU
As If Already Free is a fundamental contribution, containing precious insights into what made David Graeber the most innovative social thinker of our time, and why the legacy of his ideas will continue to inspire projects of emancipation, for generations to come.
David Wengrow
Professor of Comparative Archaeology at University College London, and co-author of The Dawn of Everything: A New History of Humanity

As If Already Free: Anthropology and Activism After David Graeber

Where to buy As If Already Free

Order a copy through Pluto Books below.

Pluto Books