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Wookieism13 karma

Oh boy. Rick Falkvinge. Long time no see.

I'm a former member and high level active in the swedish Pirate Party. Discovering that you've written a book about leadership is... spectacular. In fact, I left precisely because of your leadership. Or rather lack of it.

From what I've seen of your book, there are a few points where you obviously seem blinded by your own grandeur. You say that democracy is bullshit, and that swarm can do without it. Yet somehow, you still want to manage the swarm as though you are the supreme leader. During your time as chairman of PP, you praised the three-pirate-rule, yet somehow, only projects that you personally liked ever saw the light of day. The Young Pirates being the bright beacon that defies this rule (but you did like it, back in the days).

  • You wanted democracy at one point, yet exercised influence over the outcome of the elections by prompting your blog followers to vote a certain way on certain issues, even if you were the representative of the party.

  • You asked for donations to your private donation account via the official member emailing list, without approval from the board.

  • You bought alcohol for a 15-year old at a club in Linköping. The very same night as this happened.

So many stories Rick.

I think it's safe to say that the Pirate Party managed to succeed in 2009, not because of you, but rather despite you. You were the main reason why a lot of constructive, smart and active people left the party in 2009 and 2010.

The thing about the swarm, that you always seem to miss, is that it takes care of itself. It doesn't need a manager, or an evangelist, as you call yourself these days. It lives on its idea alone.

Kindly, a disgruntled former member and believer.