Did you know that the basis of fascism is a bundle of sticks? The word fascism has as its root in the Latin word “Fasces” or a bundle of sticks. The individual sticks represent citizens and the bundle overall represents the state. So, when considering if any country is becoming more and more fascist, think of the bundle of sticks. Which is more important in the society, the individual or the state? Or maybe the individual or the corporation? To elaborate further on this theme, here are 14 points that past fascist governments have had in common, brought to us by Dr. Lawrence Britt in his essay, “Fascism Anyone?” Let me know if these criteria look at all familiar.
1. Powerful and Continuing Nationalism
2. Disdain for the Recognition of Human Rights
3. Identification of Enemies/Scapegoats as a Unifying Cause
4. Supremacy of the Military
5. Rampant Sexism
6. Controlled Mass Media
7. Obsession with National Security
8. Religion and Government are Intertwined
9. Corporate Power is Protected
10. Labor Power is Suppressed
11. Disdain for Intellectuals and the Arts
12. Obsession with Crime and Punishment
13. Rampant Cronyism and Corruption
14. Fraudulent Elections
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