Understanding Fascism: A Closer Look at Modern Fascist Movements and Ideologies

Ironically, one of the most striking examples of openly fascist groups in the contemporary world is the National Policy Institute (NPI). Considered the most politically successful neo-Nazi organization globally, the NPI's explicit aim is to transform the United States into the Fourth Reich, with a particular focus on purging minorities. The troubling aspect is the extent to which their extremist rhetoric often intersects with mainstream media discourse, reaching a larger audience in tacit form.

Identifying Fascist Values

While many individuals may not openly self-identify as fascist, there are clear political values that can be associated with fascist ideologies. These values, first articulated by Benito Mussolini, are rooted in a blend of nationalism, corporatism, and authoritarianism. The first core value of fascism is nationalism, emphasizing the nation and state above all else. Second, corporate integration into the state (corporatism) is a fundamental aspect, where state and business interests are intertwined.

Fascist Philosophies in Practice

Fascists prioritize community and government-run services, similar to what we see in the NPI’s agenda. Essential services and community infrastructure, such as democracy unions, free healthcare, free education, parks, and recreation, are seen as crucial. However, they distinguish themselves from full socialist systems by maintaining certain capitalist practices. They reject the idea of full communism, recognizing that eliminating mandatory work burdens everyone equally.

Fascists also value teamwork and recognize individual contributions, advocating for merit-based rewards, thus combining collective and individual interests effectively.

Fascism in Contemporary Politics

Modern political systems, particularly those in the United States, are riddled with figures and movements that embody fascist ideals. The Republican and Democratic parties, though often seen as opposites, both operate under the principles of fascism. Republicans, for instance, claim to advocate for free markets and end corporate welfare, yet their policies often fall short. Democrats, on the other hand, recognize the need for regulated capitalism, with the Democratic Party being a clearer representation of fascist ideals.

The idea of corporatism, where big corporations and the state work in tandem, is a paradigmatic example of fascist political strategy. This has been evident in the regulation of major corporations, exemplified by FDR's New Deal policies, which aimed to create a regulated capitalist system. Even before U.S. involvement in WWII, political leaders advocated for a more socialist model, showing that the current political landscape is deeply intertwined with fascist principles.

Modern Fascism in Action

The modern political arena is rife with examples where fascist philosophies dominate, from Capitol Hill to the White House and Supreme Court. These spaces serve as breeding grounds for ideologues who construct policies that reinforce national unity and state control. Foreign policy often showcases an ambiguity in nationalist values, as the U.S. frequently prioritizes the needs of other countries over its own. However, the underlying motivation is often a desire for economic dominance, underpinned by the dominance of the U.S. dollar and the need for global trade and strategic alliances.

The aforementioned examples and the ongoing presence of fascism in contemporary political discourse highlight the need for critical examination and awareness. Fascist ideologies, while often camouflaged or disguised, continue to influence the political landscape, posing a significant challenge to democratic values and institutions.