The Acceleration of American Fascism — Part 2: From Demagoguery to Institutions

The Acceleration of American Fascism — Part 2: From Demagoguery to Institutions

In today's modern society, it may come as a surprise that the largest employer in America is not a corporate giant like Walmart, Microsoft, or Google, but rather the government itself. This is a common trend in advanced democracies, where the government takes on the role of the largest employer. However, what happens when demagogues gain power in these democracies? The result is often a collapse of democratic values, as seen during the first Trump years.

In the case of the Trump administration, it became evident that they were ill-prepared for the responsibilities that came with their unexpected victory. This is a common pattern in democratic collapse, where demagogues, who are not well-versed in the workings of government, struggle to navigate its complexities. This lack of understanding leads to the creation of shadow institutions that pervert the democratic counterparts, ultimately leading to the erosion of democratic values.

One example of this perversion is the manipulation of the rule of law. Historically, demagogues have turned the democratic rule of law on its head to serve their own agendas. The Nazis, for instance, used the law to repress, segregate, and expropriate Jews and other minorities. In the case of the Trump administration, the concern is not just about Trump being above the law, but rather the transformation of demagoguery itself into the law. This shift allows hate, supremacy, violence, and ignorance to become the norm, posing a grave threat to the foundations of democracy.

The acceleration of American fascism is not an isolated incident. Similar patterns can be observed in other parts of the world. For example, the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro shed light on the state-sponsored doping scandal in Russia. The International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) announced that Russia would not be allowed to compete in athletics due to the doping-related suspension of the All-Russia Athletic Federation (ARAF). Only Russian athletes who were tested outside of the country under stringent measures were permitted to participate.

This incident showcases how institutions can be corrupted and manipulated to serve the interests of a few. The ban on Russian athletes not only highlighted the issue of state-sponsored doping but also raised questions about the integrity of the institutions governing international sports. It serves as a reminder that when demagogues gain control, institutions can be subverted to further their own agendas.

So, what can be done to counter the acceleration of fascism? Here are three actionable pieces of advice:

1. Strengthen democratic institutions: It is crucial to invest in the strength and resilience of democratic institutions. This includes ensuring transparency, accountability, and checks and balances. By fortifying these institutions, we can create a solid foundation that is resistant to the subversion of demagogues.

2. Promote media literacy: In an era of misinformation and fake news, media literacy becomes essential. By educating individuals about critical thinking, fact-checking, and media biases, we can empower them to discern truth from falsehoods. A well-informed citizenry is key to safeguarding democracy.

3. Foster inclusivity and diversity: Fascism thrives on division and exclusion. By embracing inclusivity and diversity, we can create a society that celebrates differences and respects the rights of all individuals. This not only strengthens the fabric of democracy but also undermines the foundations on which demagogues build their power.

In conclusion, the acceleration of American fascism, as well as similar trends observed globally, highlights the vulnerability of democratic institutions. The manipulation of these institutions by demagogues poses a significant threat to the very essence of democracy. However, by strengthening democratic institutions, promoting media literacy, and fostering inclusivity and diversity, we can fight against the rise of fascism and safeguard the principles upon which democracy is built. The future of democracy lies in our hands, and it is up to us to protect and preserve it for generations to come.