Core Characteristics and Ideology of Fascism
Core Characteristics of Fascism
Fascism is an ultra-nationalist and authoritarian ideology. While its origins can be traced to nineteenth-century thinkers, it was systematized starting in 1919 by Benito Mussolini in Italy. Although fascism presents unique peculiarities in each country—most notably in Nazi Germany—it shares common traits inherent to authoritarian and dictatorial regimes.
1. The Totalitarian State
Fascism defends a "New State" based on a single-party system that aims to control all aspects of public and private life.
2. Rejection of Democracy
It rejects democracy as an expression of the majority will, viewing it as a force that weakens the nation. Elections are considered useless spectacles, and the movement denies that the majority can effectively manage human societies.
3. Hierarchical Social Structure
Society is structured hierarchically, with the chosen people, the party, and the leader (Duce, Führer, Caudillo) at the summit. The leader demands blind obedience.
4. Opposition to Marxism
Fascism rejects Marxism due to its internationalist character, advocating instead for national unity over revolutionary class struggle.
5. Economic Control
The state controls the basic levers of the economy, establishing programs to support national industrialization.
6. Use of Violence
Violence is implemented as a method to repress opposition. It is considered a positive, and even therapeutic, value for the state.
7. Propaganda and Censorship
The regime monopolizes an impressive propaganda apparatus and enforces strict censorship to serve the interests of the party.
8. Nationalism and Xenophobia
Fascism mythologizes the historical past, extolling nationalism as the highest value. It promotes the concept of a superior race, rejecting or devaluing those considered inferior, which leads to xenophobia.
9. Inequality and Gender Roles
Fascism is rooted in the belief in human inequality. It promotes the devaluation of women, often restricting their roles to the domestic sphere (the "3 Ks": Kinder, Küche, Kirche—children, kitchen, church). Women are often viewed as second-class citizens, discouraged from labor and excluded from military service.
10. Conclusion on Social Inequality
The fascist worldview is defined by inherent inequality: men over women, soldiers over civilians, party members over the general population, the strong over the weak, and the victors over the vanquished.