T.A.Z. is a liberated area “of land, time or imagination” where one can be for something, not just against, and where new ways of being human together can be explored and experimented with. Coined in 1990 by poet, anarcho-immediatist and Sufi scholar Hakim Bey.
The concept of a Temporary Autonomous Zone (TAZ) is a central idea in his work, describing a liberated space that exists outside of traditional social and political structures. These zones are characterized by their temporary nature and focus on creating freedom and autonomy in the present moment, rather than waiting for a revolution or future utopia.
A TAZ is a space, whether physical, social, or imaginative, where individuals can explore alternative ways of being and living without the constraints of established power structures.
Temporary: The "temporary" aspect highlights the idea that these zones are not intended to be permanent, but rather to exist for a limited time, allowing for experimentation and the avoidance of long-term structures that can lead to co-option or repression.
Autonomous: TAZs are characterized by self-governance and freedom from external control, emphasizing individual and collective autonomy.
Zone: Bey's concept diverges from traditional revolutionary approaches by focusing on creating pockets of freedom in the present, rather than waiting for a complete societal overthrow.
Bey suggests that TAZs can manifest in various forms, including social gatherings, artistic movements, or even moments of collective joy and liberation.
Ontological Anarchy & Poetic Terrorism: These terms, also part of the book's title, suggest that the pursuit of autonomy can involve challenging existing norms and structures through creative and disruptive actions.