Might Is Right or The Survival of the Fittest is a book by pseudonymous author Ragnar Redbeard, generally believed to be a pen name of Arthur Desmond. It was first published in 1896.
Content
The author sums up his work as follows:
Parker wrote: "Might Is Right is a work flawed by major contradictions." In particular, he criticized the inconsistency of the book's central dogma of individualism with its open sexism and racism (both requiring a membership in a collective). However, he concluded that "it is sustained by a crude vigor that at its most coherent can help to clear away not a few of the religious, moral and political superstitions bequeathed to us by our ancestors." Though it is no longer included in current printings of The Satanic Bible, early printings included an extensive dedication to various people whom LaVey recognized as influences, including Ragnar Redbeard.
During the early 20th century, Might Is Right had an appreciable impact on the rhetoric of the Industrial Workers of the World (IWW). The slogan "Might is Right" appeared in the union's official organ, the Industrial Worker, from 1909 through the 1930s, often asserting that "MIGHT has always ruled the world" and that organized workers would eventually "have the MIGHT and be RIGHT." The book's verses and philosophy were featured in news reports, editorials, and cartoons, while its merits were debated in Wobbly-affiliated journals like Direct Action and Industrial Pioneer. Some contemporary observers noted that the militant wing of the union effectively used the volume as a "bible" for class struggle.
Santino William Legan, the perpetrator of the 2019 Gilroy Garlic Festival shooting in Gilroy, California, mentioned Might is Right in an Instagram post. NBC journalists have claimed it is a 'staple' of white supremacist groups online.
Editions
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! Year !! Publisher !! Notes
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| 1896 || Auditorium Press