Autoreduction (from the French term autoréduction) is an anti-capitalist and collective practice by a group of people to impose a lower price for a product or service until it is free. A group of consumers take upon themselves to reduce the price of some good or service, and act collectively.[1] This could include collectively engaging in shoplifting, avoiding paying transit fares or for movie tickets, or calling in sick for work.[2] The targeted service or product is generally considered by activists as being essential and should be available on an equal basis to all people. Critics of autoreduction do not distinguish between this practice and criminal theft or robbery.[3]
The action includes various forms of non-payment for goods or services. It can result from refusal to pay for an increase in rent or utilities such as electricity, gas, or water. It may be done with the aim of redistributing goods to those in need.[3]
- ^ "Autoreduction movements in Turin, 1974". libcom.org. November 17, 2009. Archived from the original on August 16, 2016. Retrieved August 15, 2016.
- ^ Adam Woodhead (October 26, 2016). "Talking thrash with the Bay Area's Trash Talk". Metro Times. Archived from the original on March 13, 2017. Retrieved March 12, 2017.
- ^ a b Lindahl, Hans (January 2014). "Legality, Illegality, A-Legality: A Preliminary Analysis". Fault Lines of Globalization: Legal Order and the Politics of A-Legality. doi:10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199601684.003.0002. ISBN 9780199601684. Archived from the original on 2016-08-16. Retrieved 2016-08-16.