The Temporary Autonomous Zone is Hakim Bey's most famous work. It describes the political tactic of creating temporary space that eludes formal structures of control. The essay uses various historical and philosophical examples, all leading to the conclusion that the best way to create a non-hierarchial system of social relationships is to concentrate on the present. Information becomes a key tool that sneaks into the cracks of formal procedures. A new territory of the moment is created that is on the boundary line of established regions. Any attempt at permanence, that goes beyond the moment, deteriorates to a structured system that inevitably stifles individual creativity. It is this chance at creativity that is real empowerment.
The contents are divided up into the following sections: