PDF Summary:How Fascism Works, by Jason Stanley

Democracies thrive on citizens reaching a shared understanding of the truth. However, in How Fascism Works, Jason Stanley argues that fascist politics deliberately erode these foundations. Fascism fuels prejudice, dismisses expert knowledge, and distorts language—enabling leaders to control the narrative as the sole authority on truth.

This guide dissects the strategies fascists employ to destabilize societies. It explores how they weaponize propaganda and undermine education systems. Moreover, Stanley examines how fascists dismiss minority groups and exalt idealized versions of history to justify discrimination, all while purporting to restore nations to greatness.

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The author discusses Alexander Stephens' speech where he, serving as the vice president of the Confederate states, clearly declared the creation of a racial hierarchy as the cornerstone of the Southern states, challenging the idea that all men are created equal by claiming it contradicts the inherent laws of nature. The narrative crafted by the ideology of Hindutva positions Hindus as the land's ancestral dwellers and suggests that the arrival of Muslims and Christians disturbed their cultural cohesion, a concept used to justify the suppression of minority communities that differ from Hindu customs. Fascists endeavor to create a hierarchy by promoting a fabricated historical narrative that places certain groups, identified by race, religion, or ethnicity, as naturally dominant and continuously in control.

Those who hold power frequently view the erosion of their dominance not as a progression toward equal status but as an oppressive loss.

Stanley observes that the strategies employed in fascist politics not only advance the objectives of the dominant group but also cultivate a sense of victimhood among its members. Fascists foster a belief within the dominant group that they are besieged, claiming that minority groups or liberal movements are undermining their traditional norms and established position of safety.

He emphasizes research indicating a link between the expected shift towards a population where minorities are the majority in the United States and an increase in the inclination of white Americans towards conservative political stances. Jason Stanley demonstrates that the rise of the Men's Rights Activist (MRA) movement in the United States in the 1990s exemplifies the depiction of diminished traditional male privilege as a form of oppression. Fascists construct a narrative that accentuates the majority's complaints, directing their discontent at convenient scapegoats and mobilizing them to become politically active.

Fascist politics leverage feelings of perceived injustice to gain support, while systematically undermining the principle of equal treatment under the law.

Stanley suggests that individuals with a propensity for fascism exploit the sentiments of victimhood felt by the dominant groups to consolidate their hold on political authority. Fascists commit to restoring their country's former greatness through the removal of what they consider contaminants or by seeking vengeance on those they hold responsible for their plight.

The writer emphasizes the pervasive apprehension in India concerning the so-called "love jihad," a theory suggesting that Muslim men are luring Hindu women into marriage with the intent of converting them to Islam. Stanley posits that such stories illustrate the manipulation of the prevailing group's anxieties and bitterness by fascist propaganda, which fabricates a sense of danger to legitimize oppressive and violent actions.

Context

• Hindutva is a political ideology that seeks to establish the cultural and religious dominance of Hindus in India. It emphasizes the idea of India as a Hindu nation and promotes Hindu values and traditions. Hindutva proponents often advocate for policies that prioritize Hindu interests and can be associated with nationalist and exclusionary tendencies. The term is distinct from Hinduism, the religion, as it encompasses a broader socio-political agenda.
• The Men's Rights Activist (MRA) movement is a social and political movement that advocates for what they perceive as issues affecting men's rights and interests. MRAs often focus on areas such as family law, custody rights, domestic violence against men, and societal perceptions of masculinity. Critics argue that some MRAs promote misogynistic views and undermine efforts towards gender equality. The movement has been a subject of controversy and debate regarding its goals, tactics, and impact on gender relations.
• The theory of "love jihad" in India is a conspiracy theory that alleges Muslim men are engaging in a systematic effort to convert Hindu women through romantic relationships, particularly through interfaith marriages. This theory suggests that these relationships are part of a larger plot to increase the Muslim population in India. It has been used to stoke communal tensions and has led to violence in some instances. Critics argue that "love jihad" is a baseless and divisive concept that demonizes interfaith relationships and perpetuates Islamophobia.
• Alexander Stephens was the Vice President of the Confederate States of America during the American Civil War. He is known for his "Cornerstone Speech," where he articulated the Confederacy's principles, including the belief in racial hierarchy and the idea that slavery was a natural condition. Stephens' speech is significant in understanding the ideological underpinnings of the Confederacy and its defense of slavery as a fundamental institution.

Economic policies, labor, and the weaponization of "work"

Fascists advocate for autonomy and industriousness, employing these ideals as justification for ostracizing and punishing those they consider undeserving.

Stanley suggests that the financial tactics emblematic of fascism are rooted in a belief system comparable to the notion that societal progress hinges on the survival of the fittest, which exalts individual achievement and elevates those deemed "productive" above others considered "unproductive" or dependent. This belief system advocates for a stringent social order that associates wealth with virtue and regards those experiencing difficulties as undeserving of support or compassion.

The author explains how this ideology translates into policies designed to dismantle social safety nets, demonize welfare programs, and crush labor unions, leaving individuals to fend for themselves in the harsh competition of the free market. This approach, highlighted by Stanley, not only perpetuates existing social inequalities but also fosters an environment that accelerates the proliferation of authoritarian beliefs by amplifying discontent and allowing rulers to present themselves as defenders of the hardworking against supposed "freeloaders."

Fascists depict initiatives aimed at enhancing social welfare and supporting labor unions as cultivating factors that drain the nation's vigor.

Stanley posits that a fundamental principle of fascist economic policy is the strong resistance to welfare initiatives designed to enhance the well-being of the underprivileged. This opposition stems from the belief in fascism that a strong nation is founded upon the efforts of independent individuals who strengthen the community with their labor, and that dependence on state support erodes this essential principle.

The writer emphasizes the tendency of fascists to depict individuals who receive welfare as indolent individuals who exploit the system, thereby misallocating resources that should go to the industrious contributors. He underscores Hitler's denunciation of labor unions in his manifesto "Mein Kampf" and contrasts this with the rhetoric of American political figures like Paul Ryan, who portrayed the United States as divided between "makers" and "takers," advocating for measures that benefit the wealthy at the expense of the underprivileged. Stanley explains that groups exhibiting fascist behaviors attempt to weaken the solidarity of the working class and increase their vulnerability to exploitation by portraying labor unions as obstacles to economic efficiency and as vehicles for "Marxist" beliefs.

The perpetuation of the belief that certain groups are inherently lazy and unproductive often serves as a justification for the implementation of stringent criminal justice measures and the diminishment of social welfare programs.

Stanley underscores the tragic consequences of intertwining fascist ideology with economic policy. Jason Stanley argues that the misconception of inherent laziness among specific minority groups is leveraged to justify harsh penal policies and the dismantling of social support systems, perpetuating a cycle of poverty and increased penal consequences.

The writer examines the widespread imprisonment of African Americans as a key illustration of this occurrence. He underscores how baseless scientific assertions link blackness to criminal tendencies and a diminished work ethic, creating a context where harsh penalties and barriers to economic prospects are deemed normal. Stanley posits that the combination of strict law enforcement, a harsh penal system, and inadequate support after release continues to reinforce these biases within the collective consciousness of society.

Authorities seeking to undermine the rights and negotiating power of workers frequently present themselves as champions of the diligent common person.

Stanley suggests that while dictatorial leaders praise the importance of diligence and frequently exalt the "common" citizen, they concurrently undermine the protections and employment opportunities for laborers. By undermining the protective measures designed to defend workers and eroding their united power, they create a vulnerable state where workers are pushed into a rivalry with each other, resulting in a deteriorating situation.

Jason Stanley highlights that the inception of right-to-work laws in the United States was influenced by individuals with discriminatory attitudes who feared that interracial labor unions could upset the existing racial hierarchy. These rules, ostensibly crafted to boost individual freedom and choices, actually undermine the protective functions of labor unions, leaving workers exposed to the sway of large corporations and exacerbating the financial divide between the rich and the poor. Stanley argues that these contradictions expose the deceitful nature of fascist propaganda, which purports to support the common people but actually promotes the interests of the wealthy and powerful, disguising their actual motives with "nationalism" to secure the support of those they take advantage of.

Practical Tips

• You can foster a more inclusive community by volunteering with organizations that support marginalized groups. By dedicating time to help those affected by economic policies that stigmatize poverty, you contribute to breaking down stereotypes and providing practical assistance. For example, join a local food bank or mentorship program to directly support individuals who may be unfairly labeled by society.
• Start a blog or social media page that highlights the positive impact of welfare programs and labor unions. Use this platform to share stories of individuals who have benefited from these initiatives, thereby countering the narrative that they are detrimental to society's vigor. This could involve interviewing people who have found employment through union apprenticeships or those whose lives were stabilized by welfare support when they needed it most.
• Educate yourself on the history and current state of labor laws and workers' rights in your area. Knowledge is a powerful tool for change, and by understanding the intricacies of right-to-work laws and other legislation affecting workers, you can make informed decisions at the ballot box. Additionally, share this knowledge with friends and family to help them recognize the importance of protecting workers' rights for the overall health of the community.

Beliefs rooted in nationalism and ideologies aligned with fascism

Fascism shapes a national identity by exalting a curated version of history that deliberately omits specific groups or occurrences.

Stanley suggests that fascist ideology is fundamentally built on an inflated and glorified notion of national identity. The nation's identity is rooted in a yearning for a past era that is celebrated for its supposed former glory, which is believed to have been diminished due to the presence of different cultures, worldwide diversity, and the presence of various minority groups.

This fictional past serves as a cornerstone of the fascist project, providing justification for their exclusionary policies and their claims to be restoring the nation to its authentic identity. Leaders with fascist tendencies provoke fear and resentment, alleging that the country has declined from a once esteemed history, and direct these sentiments towards those they accuse of undermining the nation's unity and strength.

Fascists spin a narrative that glorifies the nation's former greatness, asserting that it has been degraded and corrupted by external, cosmopolitan, or minority influences.

Stanley suggests that the language of fascism is distinguished by creating a clear and simplistic division that delineates a virtuous "us" against a menacing "other." The story often revolves around the concept that the nation was once a symbol of solidarity and power, yet it has been eroded by external forces. These forces might take the form of various groups or concepts, including immigrants, adherents of less common religions, progressive academics, city dwellers, or even abstract ideas such as "globalism."

The author points out examples like the völkisch movement in Germany, which glorified a mythical Germanic past and set the German populace in opposition to Jews, as well as the rhetoric of Viktor Orbán in Hungary, which portrayed refugees as a threat to the country's Christian core by invoking fear of a Muslim invasion. Stanley suggests that these narratives are constructed by manipulating historical facts and altering realities to evoke a sense of threat, thereby fueling fears that the nation is deviating from its authentic core, which calls for a purification to restore its former glory.

Fascism strives to purify the nation and restore its imagined former greatness, rooted in a glorified view of the past.

Stanley suggests that longing for a glorified past goes beyond simple yearning; it acts as a potent tool that legitimizes extreme actions and prejudiced conduct. Fascist leaders promote the idea that it is essential to purify the nation from influences considered to be polluting, often symbolized by minority groups, immigrants, political opponents, or those with alternative ideologies, by portraying the nation as under attack by degenerate forces.

This justification encourages the use of authoritarian methods and rejects the democratic principle among proponents of fascism. The figurehead at the helm of a fascist government is frequently portrayed as the nation's pure embodiment, which empowers them to make pivotal choices unencumbered by the constraints of a liberal democracy's framework of checks and balances. Stanley posits that when a fascist regime solidifies its control, it can implement policies that discriminate, including eroding voting rights, reducing judicial independence, and suppressing underrepresented communities, with the gravest outcomes manifesting in the execution of large-scale genocides.

They are often portrayed as heroic defenders, working to purify the nation of individuals they allege threaten its cultural core.

The author discusses how autocratic leaders position themselves as guardians of the country, pledging to restore its former glory and preserve its true identity from any threats. The portrayal of the leader as the only savior, possessing the essential power to conquer enemies and protect the nation from imminent downfall, is firmly entrenched in the pressing manner of speech that characterizes fascist discourse.

Donald Trump has cast himself as the protector of a bygone era in the United States, one untouched by the presence of immigrants, liberals, and international power players, epitomized by his campaign's rallying cry "Make America Great Again." Stanley suggests that by presenting themselves in this way, authoritarian leaders create a climate in which their statements are seen as undeniable truths, and their actions are considered essential for the protection of the nation, regardless of ethical or legal implications.

Context

• The Völkisch movement in Germany was an ethnic nationalist movement that emerged in the late 19th century, emphasizing ideas of blood and soil, organic communities, and romantic nationalism. It was characterized by racialism, populism, and agrarianism, with a growing emphasis on antisemitism from the early 1900s onwards. The movement sought a national rebirth inspired by ancient Germanic traditions and often rejected Christianity in favor of reviving pre-Christian Germanic paganism. Adolf Hitler and the Nazis later incorporated elements of Völkisch ideology into their exclusionary and genocidal policies during the Third Reich.
• Viktor Orbán is a Hungarian politician known for his nationalist and conservative views. His rhetoric often focuses on promoting Hungarian national identity and culture while emphasizing the threat of immigration and multiculturalism to Hungary's traditional values. Orbán's speeches frequently portray refugees and migrants as a danger to Hungary's Christian heritage, using fear of a perceived invasion to rally support for his policies. His political discourse is characterized by a strong emphasis on protecting Hungary's sovereignty and cultural identity from external influences.
• Autocratic leaders positioning themselves as guardians of the country means they present themselves as protectors of the nation's interests and values. They often claim to defend the country from perceived threats, both internal and external. This positioning helps them consolidate power and justify their authoritarian actions. By portraying themselves as indispensable figures for national security and prosperity, they aim to garner support and loyalty from the populace.
• Donald Trump's campaign slogan "Make America Great Again" was a central theme of his 2016 presidential campaign. It aimed to evoke a sense of nostalgia for a perceived better time in American history and promised to restore the country to that past greatness. The slogan resonated with many supporters who felt disillusioned with the direction the country was heading and sought a return to what they viewed as a more prosperous and secure era. Trump's use of this slogan tapped into sentiments of national pride and a desire for change among a significant portion of the American electorate.

Issues of gender and sexuality are crucial in establishing the ethical principles at the core of fascist beliefs.

Ideological fascism rigidly supports traditional perspectives on sexuality and gender roles that stem from a system dominated by male authority.

Stanley argues that a defining feature of fascist ideology is its unwavering commitment to a strict, patriarchal view of society, with men at the top of the hierarchy and women relegated to traditionally subordinate roles. Stanley clarifies that emphasizing gender hierarchy and dominating women's reproductive freedoms are essential for bolstering societal stratifications, amplifying communal anxieties, and justifying biased laws, all under the guise of principles associated with authoritarian nationalism.

The writer illustrates that historically, authoritarian movements have invariably advocated for a conventional familial hierarchy with a dominant male leader at the forefront exercising authority. In this model, the leader adopts a paternal role, insisting on unwavering fidelity and compliance from those governed, likened to offspring.

The authoritarian leader is depicted as a protector who maintains traditional family values, designating women to serve as homemakers and the main nurturers of children.

Stanley underscores the robust connection between fascist ideologies and patriarchal systems, highlighting the way in which the leader embodies the quintessential representation of a protective, authoritative father figure. The symbolic role reinforces traditional gender roles and fosters dependency among the citizens, who are encouraged to look to their leaders for guidance, protection, and occasionally discipline.

In his book, Jason Stanley points out examples like Hitler's declarations in Mein Kampf praising the role of women as mothers, and the rhetoric of the Hutu power movement in Rwanda, which stressed the importance of the initial three commandments from its set of ten, both aimed at maintaining ethnic purity by controlling women's reproductive and sexual choices. Stanley posits that authoritarian regimes, by imposing strict patriarchal norms, rationalize the oppression of women and curtail their freedoms, affecting their individual experiences and their status within the broader authoritarian structure.

Fascists incite alarm regarding the alleged decline of conventional masculinity and the perceived sexual danger from minority or "deviant" groups.

Stanley highlights how groups inclined toward fascism exploit anxieties about masculinity by insinuating that traditional positions of manhood are under threat. The perception of threat can stem from multiple sources, including the progression of gender equality, changes in economic conditions, or the increased visibility of LGBTQ+ groups. Leaders with fascist tendencies present themselves as guardians of traditional masculinity, pledging to restore a version of manhood that emphasizes dominance, superiority, and control.

Stanley observes that such discussions frequently employ xenophobic and racist terminology to depict "outsiders" as jeopardizing personal security. The author draws attention to the post-World War I German propaganda that demonized African soldiers by accusing them of sexual violence against European women, a campaign infamously referred to as "the Black Horror on the Rhine," and compares it to Donald Trump's portrayal of Mexican immigrants as sexual offenders. These narratives fuel anxieties over the purity of racial heritage and the safety of white women, portraying minorities and immigrants as dangerous criminals who represent a risk that needs to be controlled or eliminated to safeguard the nation's integrity and safety.

Fascists strive to undermine the foundational values of personal freedom and equality by imposing rigid controls on sexual conduct and societal expectations related to gender.

Stanley suggests that strictly enforcing norms related to sexuality and gender can significantly undermine the fundamental values that underpin a liberal democracy. They justify policies that undermine individual freedoms and promote discrimination by claiming to protect "conventional norms," while depicting the presence of homosexual and transgender people, along with women's control over their reproductive choices, as threats to the moral fabric of the country.

He references instances such as the North Carolina "bathroom bill," which required transgender people to use restrooms matching their sex assigned at birth, and the oppression of LGBTQ+ groups in Russia, Poland, and Hungary, where being homosexual is frequently depicted as a perilous external force threatening the nation's moral fabric. Stanley contends that hostility towards various gender and sexual identities is indicative of a fascist's contempt for individual liberty and the principles of equality, revealing their underlying objective to control the intimate facets of individuals' lives and enforce rigid conformity based on a narrow view of the national identity.

Practical Tips

• You can challenge traditional gender narratives by reading and sharing stories that feature non-traditional roles and diverse sexual identities. By diversifying your reading list to include novels, biographies, and articles that celebrate a wide range of gender expressions and sexual orientations, you contribute to normalizing these narratives in your own understanding and within your social circle. For example, if you typically read historical fiction that reinforces traditional gender roles, try a science fiction novel that explores gender fluidity or a biography of an influential figure who challenged gender norms.
• Start a conversation with friends or family about the impact of gender expectations by asking open-ended questions about their experiences. This can be as simple as asking, "Have you ever felt limited by what society expects from your gender?" or "How do you think our family's expectations of gender roles have shaped your choices?" These discussions can help to uncover and dismantle long-held beliefs about gender and sexuality in your immediate environment.
• Reflect on your own biases and assumptions about gender and sexuality by keeping a journal where you note instances where you've made assumptions based on these factors. For instance, if you catch yourself expecting a male colleague to be the decision-maker in a group, write it down, reflect on why you had that expectation, and consider how you can approach similar situations with an open mind in the future. This self-awareness can be a powerful tool in recognizing and changing patterns of thought that align with authoritarian and patriarchal ideologies.