Relationship anarchy is a philosophical and ethical approach to interpersonal relationships that rejects traditional social norms and hierarchies, particularly those that prioritize romantic or sexual relationships over others. Rooted in anarchist principles, it advocates for autonomy, @consent, and flexibility in how individuals define and navigate their connections. Relationship anarchists often resist pre-established categories such as “partner,” “friend,” or “spouse,” instead choosing to co-create each relationship on its own terms. They emphasize communication, mutual respect, and the rejection of entitlement—especially in areas such as time, intimacy, or exclusivity. This framework shares ideological overlap with movements like @Consensual Non-Monogamy (CNM), though it is distinct in its critique of relational hierarchy. To me, “relationship anarchy” seems a bit impractical, at least from the standpoint of communicating efficiently. Using that label, you inevitably have to explain your particular version every time you meet someone new—it actually complicates the process of contextualizing your style of relating. I don’t think it’s inherently wrong or misguided, just cumbersome unless you’re working within a shared lexicon or system like @MythOS. Personally, I gravitate more toward “@Relational Sovereignty”—a blend of @Hierarchical Polyamory and @Secure Attachment—which combines two known concepts and enables others to more effortlessly orient towards my framework for connection.
Contexts
- #consensual-non-monogamy (See: @Consensual Non-Monogamy (CNM))
- #consensual-non-monogamy-lexicon (See: @Consensual Non-Monogamy (CNM) Glossary)
- #relational-framework
