In Defense of Looting

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Looting, defined as the public and direct seizure of goods, emerges as a significant act during social unrest. Even radicals often distance themselves from looters, concerned that such actions tarnish the broader movement. In a compelling argument, Vicky Osterweil contends that looting, often criticized in contemporary society, serves as a vital tool for dismantling capitalism and white supremacy. By redistributing wealth and improving conditions for the working class, looting sends a bold message to the police, the state, and an unjust society. Osterweil asserts that our beliefs about property rights are rooted in a history of anti-Black and settler oppression, suggesting that the concept of ownership is inherently linked to white supremacy. From historical slave revolts to modern movements like #BlackLivesMatter, she presents looting and rioting as powerful means to challenge the status quo and uplift marginalized communities. This work offers a historical perspective on violent protest as a catalyst for social change, reinterpreting radical activism and proposing a transformative vision for wealth redistribution, property relations, and societal restructuring.