Fascism and Its Preconceptions

Fascism is often conflated with other ideologies and movements, but it has a distinct lineage rooted in radical nationalism and non-Marxist socialism. The Nazis, in their most notorious form, combined these elements with biological racism and eugenics, culminating in a regime that sought to exert control over every aspect of individuals' lives, including their souls.

Origins of Fascism and Its Religious Overtones

Nazism wished to create a new gospel and a new religion by integrating the church's traditional role of influencing the totality of man's life. The Nazi regime perceived the spiritual domain as a sphere to be conquered, much like political and cultural spheres. This anti-Christian stance was not just a political tool but an integral part of their ideology. The persecution of Protestants and Catholics who did not conform to Nazi dogmas further solidified the regime's anti-Christian nature.

Islamism and Fascism: A Misleading Comparison

Attempts to compare Islamism with fascism are misguided. Fascism, as defined by scholars like Zeev Sternhell, is a secular revolutionary ideology that opposes Christianity and Western secularism. Islamism, on the other hand, is a movement rooted in religious extremism, which uses faith to radicalize its politics. Similarly, communism and Islamism should not be equated due to their fundamentally different bases and goals.

The Trump Phenomenon and American Right Dynamics

Donald Trump’s policies and rhetoric often led to his characterization as fascist or ultranationalist, particularly by his most fervent critics. However, Trump’s approach to global affairs, such as negotiating with North Korea and forming strategic alliances in the Middle East, clearly differentiates him from traditional fascist or totalitarian leaders.

Anti-Statism and Individual Rights

On the American right, there is a significant differentiation between mainstream conservatives and other factions. American conservatives tend to be characterized by their anti-statist and anti-collectivist leanings, inherited from aspects of classical liberalism and minimal state libertarianism. This contrasts with the more state-centered and regimented ideologies typical of fascist and totalitarian regimes.

Characterizing Trump and His Critics

Claims that Trump is fascist, ultranationalist, or authoritarian often reflect a profound misunderstanding of what fascism entails. His critics, who were repeatedly given a platform, do not fit the bill of fascist behavior. Trump's rhetoric and policies, though polarizing, do not align with the comprehensive and systematic dehumanization characteristic of fascism.

Conclusion

While contemporary “progressivism” often emphasizes radical equality and state intervention, it is crucial to differentiate between ideological extremes. Trump’s political style, while controversial, does not fit the well-defined criteria of fascism, totalitarianism, or ultranationalism. Understanding these distinctions is vital for a clearer discourse on political ideologies and their implications.