Lunarians

Poul Anderson, Harvest Of Stars, 26.

Why are Rinndalir's "ancillaries" (p. 243), like Arren and Isabu, so firmly under his orders?

Thesis: Lunarians are a free-wheeling breed whose ideal is to be and do everything for themselves. This attitude suffices for creativity and minor enterprises. (p. 248)

Antithesis: They "'...cannot afford anarchism.'" (ibid.)

Comment: It depends what is meant by "anarchism." Literally, "anarchy" means "no rule," not "no cooperation or organization" or "disorder." However, contextually, it is clear that Arren means "disorganization"/"disorder."

Antithesis (continued):

In space and on the Moon, survival requires discipline, life support and "'...instant cooperation in emergencies...'" (ibid.);

also, for larger enterprises, "'...organization is required.'" (ibid.);

again, issues like individual and communal rights, justice and arbitration require a common approach.

Synthesis: Different cultures devise different mechanisms, each requiring common consent -

Terrestrial allegiance to national governments with indirect legitimacy granted to the World Federation;

trothgivers' allegiance to Fireball;

Lunarians' allegiance to individual Selenarchs.

In the event of Rinndalir's death, Arren would ask himself, "Who else of Rinndalir's rank pleases me and would that lord accept me?"

Question: But how is "rank" acquired in the first place?

Partial Answer: Some members of the first generation of Lunarians inherited wealth and were proactive enough to acquire more. Others recognize this and give their allegiance accordingly.