"Anarchists -- which is what punks were" Is like saying "Democrats- which is what gays are" or "Republicans- Which is what Christians are"
Nothing is as simple as simple people like to make it, and in general, incorrectly.
While there's a strong association between punk and anarchism, it's not accurate to say that all punks were or are anarchists. The relationship is complex and multifaceted.
Most of the scene, 1984 and forward were
Anti-Establishment and Anti-Authoritarianism: A core tenet of the broader punk subculture is a general anti-establishment, anti-authoritarian, and anti-corporate stance. This often aligns with anarchist principles, even if not explicitly labeled as such. Punk's DIY ethos, rejection of mainstream culture, and questioning of authority resonate deeply with anarchist ideas of self-organization and liberation.
Anarcho-Punks are a specific sub-genre of punk rock that explicitly promotes anarchism through its lyrics, ethics, and actions. Bands like Crass, Conflict, and Subhumans promoted direct action, pacifism (though some groups did not), animal rights and anti-consumerism. This was popular in the 70's with the emergence of Punk as a scene and was rallied around by bands like the Sex Pistols, working class blue collar laborers and the song "Anarchy in the UK".
There are diverse political views. While anarchism is a significant thread, the punk subculture encompasses a wide range of political views, such as Left-leaning but not strictly anarchist, apolitical, and rejection of Nazism/Fascism. Some early punks (often for shock value) might have incorporated provocative symbols, the overwhelming majority of the punk subculture strongly rejects Nazism and fascism. Songs like Dead Kennedys' "Nazi Punks F**k Off" exemplify this clear stance.
Anarchism is undeniably a powerful and influential ideology within punk, especially within the "anarcho-punk" sub-genre, it's not the sole political belief system held by all punks. The punk subculture is characterized by its diversity, anti-authoritarianism, and a general spirit of rebellion against the status quo.
"Anarchy" as a Broad Concept: For some early punks, "anarchy" in songs like "Anarchy in the U.K." was more about a general sense of chaos, rebellion, and a desire to dismantle the existing order.
Captain Obvious would have a difficult time with this subject.
