FDR defined fascism as “ownership of government by an individual, by a group, or any controlling private power.”
To get a better sense of what fascism is, I read Paxton’s book. Here are my takeaways.
Fascism isn’t an ideology, it’s a phenomena, a mass uprising led by a mesmerizing leader who evokes the nation’s mythical destiny. To succeed, a large number of angry disaffected people must fall in line, and democratic norms must be weak enough to crumble under assault.
Mostly fascism is a cult of leadership. The people believe the leader’s instincts are superior to the rational logic used by “elites.” So Trump’s claim that he instinctively knows things makes sense to his followers, and makes them feel safe.
“Your suffering is not your fault,” the leader tells the people. “Your suffering is the fault of your enemies.” Fascism, like other forms of totalitarianism, sees the purpose of government, not to better the lives of the people, but to protect them from enemies.
The horrors at the border—separating children from parents—makes perfect sense within a fascist mindset: Anyone entering the borders is an enemy and dangerous and must be treated as such. In extolling violence, fascists also tolerate cruelty— to “others” and out-groups.
A fascist uprising requires the members to move in lockstep & wear a sort of uniform (red MAGA caps ??). The individuals give up their individuality for the sake of the group. The first fascist were not Italian, but the KKK (who had a demonized enemy and even a uniform).
The leader seizes control, not by force, but because people become complicit. In Italy and Germany, it was the greater fear of communism that led many to become complicit. (In the US, I believe it is hatred of “liberals” and fear of diversity.)
Because fascism is a popular uprising, it can only arise in a democracy with widespread voting. which is why it didn’t appear until the 20th century. (Previously in the U.S. voters were mostly white and male. Europe mostly had monarchs and emperors, born to wealth and power.)
Democracy is always in danger of a fascist takeover. A certain segment of the population leans toward this kind of thinking & elected officials can use their power to attack democratic norms and seize control.
If there is any doubt that Trumpism is a cult of leadership, by a 3-1 margin, Trump’s supporters embrace his personality over his policies.
