Magic to Topple the Oligarchy

A few months ago I was asked what magic people should do to topple the Oligarchy. I asked for people that had run for office to raise their hands – no one did. I asked for people who planned on running to raise their hands – no one did. I asked if there was no government but a direct democracy, for people who want to spend at least 10 hours a week devoted to government to raise their hands – no one did.

That is why there is an oligarchy and always will be. People interested in running the state will run the state. They will benefit from it, and become powerful by it. If they topple, there will just be another Oligarchy in its place. Because ultimately, you are more interested in magic than in governance. That’s ok. So am I.

So magic is not going to Topple the Oligarchy. Don’t focus on that.

Focus instead on your life and how you can live it with as much freedom and power as you can. Maybe that means working within society. Maybe it means existing at the fringe. Maybe it means being off the grid as much as possible. You can enchant the fuck out of any of these options.

Once you do, you can start to share that power and freedom with others. Got Money? Spend it wisely, and compassionately and support things and people you believe in. Exist at the fringe? Fight for others who are also living a bit differently. Off the Grid? Teach others and make it easier and more available.

As for the Oligarchy, a small group are always going to be in charge, but HOW they are in charge matters. Just like bosses at work or any other position of authority there are two ways of ruling. The first is ruling with an iron fist and letting the huddled masses wallow in sickness and starvation until they finally revolt. The second is to ensure a reasonable level of comfort and care for everyone as well as some economic mobility. Use magic to support the leaders that hold view that you find desirable.