What is fascism?

A far-right, ultranationalist, authoritarian, political ideology.

Characterized by dictatorial leadership, suppression of opposition, and strong control of the economy and society.

A "revolutionary" movement that aims to reshape society, as opposed to conserving the existing social order.

A "portable concept"
Fascism is an adaptable concept that travels across time and space.

It capitalizes on perceived national decline, humiliation, and victimhood to unify a community.

The mythic past and national rebirth

Populist ultranationalism: A belief in the need for a national rebirth from a state of decadence, led by a charismatic leader.

A glorious, mythic past: A constant appeal to a fictional, mythic past to justify the nationalist cause and inspire a sense of destiny.

Obsession with national decline: The belief that the nation is in a state of decay and must be restored to its former glory.

The politics of "us and them"

Identification of enemies and scapegoats: The use of racial, ethnic, religious, and political minorities to rally the public in a patriotic frenzy.

Demonization and "othering":

The dehumanization of "outsiders" to justify human rights abuses and violence.

"Internal foreigners": Labeling political opponents or critical thinkers as disloyal "traitors".

The cult of the leader

The leadership principle: The belief that the state should have a single, authoritarian leader with absolute power.

Charisma and the "strongman" image: The leader is portrayed as a strong, virile figure who alone can restore the nation.

Rejection of reasoned debate: Followers are encouraged to see the leader's will as an infallible truth.

Controlling the people

Controlled mass media: Suppression of independent media through government control or influence.

Anti-intellectualism: Open hostility toward higher education, academia, and free expression in the arts.

Erosion of human rights: The rights of individuals are ignored for the perceived "needs" of national security.

Suppression of labor: Labor power is suppressed to protect corporate interests, which align with the regime.

Rampant cronyism and corruption: The government is run by friends and associates of the leader, who use their positions for personal gain.

Militarism: The military is glorified and given a disproportionate amount of government funding.

The destruction of democratic norms

Rejection of democracy: The active subversion and dismantling of democratic institutions.

Fraudulent elections: Manipulation of the electoral process through voter suppression, smear campaigns, and other means.

Violent opposition: The use of violence against political opponents to suppress dissent.

The dismantling of public goods: A disregard for public services and institutions in favor of private interests.