One sentence summary:
‘Liberal Fascism’ argues that the American Left shares many similarities with fascist movements, and explores the historical and ideological origins of this connection.
Book genre:
Non-fiction, political history and commentary.
Main topic of the book:
The book focuses on the historical and ideological connections between fascism and progressivism, and challenges the commonly-held belief that fascism is a product of the political Right.
Key ideas:
- The origins of fascism can be traced back to the progressive movement in the United States.
- The American Left has historically embraced authoritarianism and collectivism, which are key components of fascism.
- The concept of “the politics of meaning” is a form of totalitarianism that has roots in fascist ideology.
- The tactics and strategies used by fascist movements are still present in modern American political discourse.
Main parts of the book and a short summary:
- Introduction: Sets the context for the book and introduces the main argument.
- Origins of Liberal Fascism: Explores the roots of fascism in progressive movements and thinkers in the late 19th and early 20th century.
- The Godfather of Modern Liberal Fascism: Examines the influence of progressive philosopher John Dewey on the development of fascism.
- Mussolini’s America: Looks at the admiration for Mussolini and Italian fascism in American progressive circles during the 1920s and 1930s.
- The First New Deal and the Triumph of the Corporate State: Argues that FDR’s New Deal policies embraced elements of fascism, particularly through the implementation of corporatism.
- Beyond the New Deal: Explores the continued embrace of authoritarianism and collectivism in American politics after the New Deal era.
- The Sixties: Examines the influence of leftist movements, such as the counterculture and the New Left, on modern American politics.
- From Totalitarianism to the Politics of Meaning: Connects the concept of “the politics of meaning” to fascist ideology and explores its presence in modern progressive movements.
- Liberal Fascism Today: Looks at how the tactics and strategies used by fascist movements are still present in modern American politics.
Key takeaways:
- Fascism is not exclusively a product of the political Right and has roots in progressive movements and ideologies.
- Authoritarianism, collectivism, and the politics of meaning are all key components of fascism that can be seen in modern American politics.
- The tactics and strategies employed by fascist movements, such as the use of propaganda and the suppression of dissent, are still being used today.
Author’s background and qualifications:
Jonah Goldberg is an American conservative political commentator, media host, and author. He has worked for various publications, including National Review and The American Enterprise magazine. Goldberg has also published several books on politics, including ‘The Tyranny of Clichés’ and ‘Suicide of the West.’
Target audience:
This book is geared towards a politically engaged audience and those interested in the historical and ideological origins of fascism and progressive movements in the United States.
Publisher and first publication date:
Penguin Press, January 8, 2008.