What Is Relationship Anarchy? The Radical Philosophy Reshaping Modern Love

Relationship Anarchy is a modern relationship trend that seeks to rewrite society’s definition of being in relationships. Anarchy, as the name suggests, is lawlessness. This anarchical trend denies traditional rules and beliefs about relationships. Instead, this modern take suggests a different way of experiencing them.

Society is changing each day as newer generations with different ideas attempt to pave new paths, departing from those more trodden.  What is the philosophy behind this modern relationship trend? Will relationship anarchy replace how relationships are structured? Here is the belief system behind relationship anarchy.

Anti-Hierarchial

Relationship anarchy de-prioritizes romantic relationships. It attempts to make them equal to all other relationships, such as with friends. Relationships with partners are not deemed the primary or most important relationship in their sphere. Relationship anarchists reject institutional traditions, such as the Church.

Rather than agree that relationships are ordained by God and honored, this modern relationship trend is based on a different belief system. All relationships are considered equal, and partners are free to spread themselves equally among them.

Mutual Concent

For relationship anarchy to work, there should be mutual agreement on both sides. Both sides should reciprocate the loving and sharing atmosphere desired in the relationship. No one should give more than the other. There should be equal benevolence within the relationship, so both partners feel equally supported.

Matching the same energy as their partners is the way this modern relationship trend works. So, I’m assuming if happiness and joy are coming from one side of the relationship, the other side should bring the same experience.

Autonomous

In relationship anarchy, each person in the relationship is completely autonomous. They are the captain of their own ship, so however they choose to navigate their relationship is completely up to them. There is no right or wrong way to be in a relationship. There are no rules to abide by.

Everyone is free to manage their time with those they’re in a relationship with as they see fit. Of course, this has to be agreed upon by both partners. If one partner adopts this modern relationship trend, and the other one is not on board, it could be rough sailing.

General Consensus

For relationship anarchy to work, both partners must agree on decisions that determine how the relationship operates. The relationship dynamics are to be accepted and approved by each partner. They are to understand how the relationship works and how disagreements are handled. They must also each understand their responsibilities.

When both parties understand how the relationship is to operate, they shouldn’t be confused moving forward. If something occurs that was not previously addressed, they can regroup, discuss, and agree on a plan to handle it.

Open Communication

The success of this modern relationship trend depends on the open communication of both parties. They must know and understand the boundaries and expectations of their partners and be in agreement with them. People’s relationships are all different, and they can make their own rules as long as there’s mutual agreement. Mutual agreement cannot be achieved without communication.

Each relationship has its own uniqueness, which depends on partners’ needs, wants, and expectations. The lines of communication must be kept open so that each partner is aware of any boundaries, deal breakers, or anything that would jeopardize their agreement. 

Rejects Social Pressure

Traditionally, societal relationships, such as marriage, engagement, or dating, are the primary relationships. However, anti-amatonormativity is a concept that rejects social pressure to place romantic relationships above other relationships. It equalizes all relationships, whether life partners or friends.

For this to work, both partners should be secure individuals. Those suffering from codependency or anxious attachment disorder would not thrive in relationship anarchy.

Final Thoughts

This modern dating trend may not be for everyone, but if you like stepping outside of traditional boxes and making your own rules as you go, relationship anarchy may be for you. As long as you and your partner agree to go against the grain of society by rejecting hierarchical systems, being autonomous, and establishing mutual consent.

You must both agree to reject social pressures and communicate so that all parties understand the dynamics of the relationship. If relationship anarchy seems to be your thing, go for it, only make sure your partner fully agrees.