Fascism in the US?

• Author: Fuller, Dale
• Position: Forum on Green Politics - Column

Pete Dolack's article in the fall edition of Synthesis/Regeneration questioning whether fascism could happen in the US is well written and deserves careful reading and reflection. The point where I would differ with Mr. Dolack is in the necessity of a political dictatorship in the traditional sense of one-person rule. That is the style of fascism that evolved during the 1930s, but I don't see that as a necessary requirement for a fascist system. According to Webster, fascism is a political philosophy emphasizing extreme nationalism, cultural/racial purity (xenophobia), a capitalist economy either controlled or at least directed by a centralized government, suppression of dissent, and an authoritarian, monolithic political power structure, but not necessarily a dictatorship.

I suggest that, beginning with the Alien and Sedition Acts in the late 18th century, the US government has consistently attacked dissenters, sometimes in lesser degree, sometimes in greater degree, and often violently. The US government is perfectly willing to use everything in its power, including violence, against its citizens to maintain its control.

As for the need to have a one-person or at least one-party dictatorship, I believe that already exists. I submit that there is no difference between Republicans and Democrats in any meaningful way and that they intend to keep it this way. Thus, we have a one-party dictatorship in fact, if not in name.

I agree with Mr. Dolack that we will not see a 1930s style of fascism with storm troopers and a one-person dictatorship. They aren't necessary. The US already has enough military/police power to control a population that is taught to revere representatives of national authority and to be afraid of non-Americans (constant terror alerts and color codes that change...