In the absence of formal command structures it's human nature for informal ones to form. This is a theme that comes up time and time again when reading about organisations with very flat management structures (eg Valve and Corel). It turns out that while formal management structures can have accountability and systems to deal with unfair actions, informal ones can't. I know which one I'd prefer to work under.

It looks like a heavily armed repeat of some of the '60s hippie commune experiments.

Or, more primaly, you appeal the decisions by forming your own, larger, like minded group.

It is very interesting to observe the natural tension between the strongly individualistic ethos and the fact that it's essentially impossible to accomplish anything socially without collective action.