On Fascism

1. Authoritarianism: A Latent Threat to American Democracy

Approximately 18 percent of Americans are highly disposed to authoritarianism. Another 23 percent or so are attitudinally just one step below them on the authoritarian scale.

Authoritarian inclinations. This latent authoritarianism in about 40% of Americans can be activated by fear or circumstances, potentially leading them to sacrifice liberty for perceived security. When triggered, these individuals may support strongman leaders and embrace an "us vs. them" mentality that can spiral into fascism.

Historical patterns. Throughout U.S. history, there has been a tug-of-war between democratic aspirations and authoritarian impulses. This tension has produced some of the darkest moments in American history, from the Indian Removal Act to Jim Crow laws.

Measuring authoritarianism. Researchers use a set of questions about child-rearing values to estimate an individual's disposition towards authoritarianism. Those who prioritize obedience and good manners over independence and curiosity tend to score higher on the authoritarian scale.

2. The Paranoid Style: Exploiting Fear in U.S. Politics

Fear breeds repression; that repression breeds hate; that hate menaces stable government.

Stoking fear. Throughout American history, politicians and demagogues have exploited fear to gain power. This "paranoid style" in politics involves creating an enemy within, often a minority group, and portraying them as an existential threat to the majority.

Historical examples:

• Father Charles Coughlin's anti-Semitic radio broadcasts in the 1930s
• Senator Joseph McCarthy's communist witch hunts in the 1950s
• Modern-day fear-mongering about immigrants and Muslims

Consequences. This exploitation of fear can lead to the erosion of civil liberties, the persecution of minority groups, and the weakening of democratic institutions.

3. Constitutional Erosion: Lessons from Chinese Exclusion and Japanese Internment

In times of war, the laws fall silent.

Chinese Exclusion Act. Passed in 1882, this was the first U.S. law to use race as a criterion for restricting immigration. It set a dangerous precedent for discriminatory policies and fueled violence against Chinese Americans.

Japanese Internment. During World War II, over 110,000 Japanese Americans were forcibly relocated to internment camps, violating their constitutional rights. The Supreme Court's Korematsu decision upholding this policy is considered one of its greatest failures.

Lasting impact. These episodes demonstrate how easily constitutional protections can be eroded during times of fear or crisis, especially for minority groups. They serve as cautionary tales about the fragility of civil liberties and the importance of vigilance in protecting them.

4. Lynching: America's Shameful Legacy of Racial Terror

Lynching succeeded slavery as the ultimate expression of racism in the United States.

Scale and brutality. Between 1882 and 1968, at least 4,742 Americans were murdered by lynch mobs, with the vast majority being Black. These killings were often public spectacles, attended by thousands and even promoted in newspapers.

Lack of justice. Despite the widespread nature of these crimes, perpetrators were rarely punished. Local, state, and federal officials often turned a blind eye or were complicit in the violence.

Failed legislation. For decades, Congress failed to pass federal anti-lynching legislation, largely due to opposition from Southern senators. It wasn't until 2018 that the Senate finally passed such a bill, though it has yet to become law as of 2020.

5. McCarthyism: The Dangers of Unchecked Demagoguery

Have you no sense of decency, sir, at long last? Have you left no sense of decency?

Rise of McCarthy. Senator Joseph McCarthy gained power by stoking fears of communist infiltration in the U.S. government. His baseless accusations and intimidation tactics created a climate of fear and suspicion.

Institutional failure. For years, many in the press, political establishment, and public enabled McCarthy's witch hunts. Few were willing to stand up to him, fearing political repercussions.

Legacy. McCarthyism demonstrates how demagogues can exploit fear and institutional weaknesses to undermine democratic norms. It serves as a warning about the dangers of unchecked political power and the importance of maintaining a robust system of checks and balances.

6. The Surveillance State: Post-9/11 Erosion of Civil Liberties

A government of, by, and for the people cannot exist when the people are kept in the dark.

Expanded surveillance. In the aftermath of 9/11, the U.S. government dramatically expanded its surveillance capabilities, often in secret and with little oversight.

Key programs:

• NSA's warrantless wiretapping
• PRISM data collection program
• Total Information Awareness (later renamed and moved to black budget)

Constitutional concerns. These programs raise serious Fourth Amendment issues regarding unreasonable searches and seizures. The government has often justified them by citing national security needs in the "War on Terror."

Ongoing debate. The tension between security and privacy continues to be a major issue in American politics, with whistleblowers like Edward Snowden bringing renewed attention to government surveillance practices.

7. Confronting History: Reconciliation and Moving Forward

Denial of our mistakes compounds them. Reconciliation of our past transgressions strengthens us as a people.

Acknowledging past wrongs. The author argues that America must confront the darker aspects of its history, including slavery, Native American genocide, and racial discrimination, rather than denying or minimizing them.

The 1619 Project. This New York Times initiative to reexamine the legacy of slavery in American history is cited as an example of efforts to confront the past, as well as the backlash such efforts can face.

Path to healing. By honestly reckoning with historical injustices, the nation can begin to heal divisions and work towards a more inclusive and equitable future. This process is essential for strengthening democracy and living up to America's founding ideals.

8. Strengthening Democracy: Ten Steps for Every American

If you want to live in a democracy, you simply have to take the time to do this.

Individual responsibility. The author outlines ten steps every American can take to strengthen democracy:

1. Establish and maintain political equality for all
2. Promote equality of opportunity
3. Work towards economic equality
4. Prohibit special deals for powerful interests
5. Support a system of checks and balances
6. Reject "othering" and fearmongering
7. Confront and reconcile with history
8. Address current challenges facing fellow citizens
9. Commit to facts and reject "alternative facts"
10. Embrace civic duty and service to the nation

Collective action. By taking these steps, Americans can actively participate in preserving and perfecting their democracy, rather than relying solely on institutions or elites to do so.

Ongoing struggle. The author emphasizes that maintaining a healthy democracy requires constant vigilance and effort from citizens. It is an ongoing process of improvement and recommitment to core democratic values.

Last updated: November 18, 2024