Fascism - Extreme nationalism, Dictatorial rule, Absence of liberty and individual rights
Posted by Skye on October 9, 2025, 4:23 am
Fascism is a far-right, authoritarian, and ultranationalist political ideology and movement that rose to prominence in early-20th-century Europe... Ie. Mussolini in Italy, and Hitler in Germany
Difference from democracy Fascism is fundamentally opposed to liberalism and electoral democracy.
Individual vs. state: While democracies support individual rights and political dissent, fascism asserts the supremacy of the nation over the individual.
Absence of liberty: Under a fascist government, people have few individual rights and no freedom to speak against the ruling power.
Fascism is an authoritarian political ideology and mass movement characterized by extreme nationalism, dictatorial leadership, and the suppression of opposition. Historically prominent in Europe between 1919 and 1945, fascist regimes, including those of Benito Mussolini in Italy and Adolf Hitler in Germany, had many characteristics in common.
Core characteristics
While specific fascist movements differ, scholars have identified common features:
Extreme nationalism: Fascist movements promote intense national pride and belief in the superiority of their nation, often relying on propaganda to fuel blind obedience.
Dictatorial rule: Power is centralized around a single, autocratic leader, leading to a "cult of personality" that exalts the nation and often a specific race above the individual.
Suppression of opposition: Fascist governments use force and violence to suppress dissent, persecute political enemies, and eliminate civil liberties. There is no tolerance for disagreement with the ruling party.
Militarism: The ideology promotes an extreme emphasis on the military and often romanticizes violence as "redemptive".
Social hierarchy and elitism: Fascist ideology champions a natural social hierarchy and the rule of elites. Individual interests are subordinated to the good of the nation.
Economic regimentation: The government exerts severe control over the economy, labor, and commerce. While leaders may appeal to the working class, regimes often align with and protect powerful corporate interests.
Fear of outsiders: Fascism often exploits xenophobia and identifies "enemies" or scapegoats to create a sense of unity. This can lead to racial and ethnic persecution.
Origins and etymology
The word "fascism" comes from the Italian fascio, meaning "bundle or political group". Ancient Rome: The term was derived from the Latin fasces, a bundle of birch rods and an axe used as a symbol of penal authority in ancient Rome.
Mussolini: Europe's first fascist leader, Benito Mussolini, used the name for his political movement in Italy. The word "fascisti" was used to describe members of his group.
Difference from democracy
Fascism is fundamentally opposed to liberalism and electoral democracy.
Individual vs. state: While democracies support individual rights and political dissent, fascism asserts the supremacy of the nation over the individual.
Absence of liberty: Under a fascist government, people have few individual rights and no freedom to speak against the ruling power.
So again I ask... What is the 'problem' with "Antifa"? Except to those who are in favor of fascism??
