fascism, does it exist in 21st Century America?

[noose4]

I will argue it does, and that fascism is the greatest threat to our republic in this, the first decade of the new century.
But first, before the debate begins, how do YOU define fascisim (small 'f')?

any one who thinks America is fascist has no idea what fascism is.

 

[Wry Catcher]

Wry,

You keep embarrassing yourself by posting "Examples" of "Fascism"when it's clear that you don't like Republicans and want to find any excuse to use that word, but I'll bet you'll use this post as an example of my "Fascism"

No CF, I don't know if you're a fascist thinker or not. Remember, fascisim as I have introduced the term on this thread is not the Fascisim of Italy or National Socialism of Germany; historically fascist governments have some characteristics in common, but fascist (small 'f') governments have ruled in nations other than Germany and Italy.
[by the way, I was challenged to define what I meant by fascism, and when I did was criticized for doing so. I understand the tactic, and feel no need to respond to such rhetoric].
I don't dislike Republicans (of course I'm glad my sister didn't marry one - sorry, a little wry humor); my animosity is focued on the fringe, the extreme elements in our society on both the left and the right.
Remember CF, I'm retired but worked for two different law enforcement agencies for over 32 years; as a deputy I was a dues paying member of the union, and later, as a manager, I spent many an hour arguing with union reps and business agents on the rights of and responsibilities of line staff.
I'm moderate on many issues and quite liberal on others. I identify with the Democratic Party because I believe captal has exploited labor historically, and will do so at any opportunity. But I also believe in personal responsibility and fiscal discipline as well as equality for all.

 

[Wry Catcher]

I will argue it does, and that fascism is the greatest threat to our republic in this, the first decade of the new century.
But first, before the debate begins, how do YOU define fascisim (small 'f')?

any one who thinks America is fascist has no idea what fascism is.

Please tell us Oh wise one.

 

[noose4]

I will argue it does, and that fascism is the greatest threat to our republic in this, the first decade of the new century.
But first, before the debate begins, how do YOU define fascisim (small 'f')?

any one who thinks America is fascist has no idea what fascism is.

Please tell us Oh wise one.

if i have to tell you then you are probably too stupid to understand. what the fuck do you think is fascist about America? we live in a country where both filthy hippies and teabaggers can protest to their heats content, we have so much freedom that nutjobs can openly carry firearms in proximity to where our President is appearing, like stated anybody that thinks this country is fascist has no idea what fascism is about.

 

[Si modo]

... but the opinions of others must be supported by facts ....

But not by you, eh?

I wonder if you can guess what word is on my mind right now.

Would that be hypocrite? ....

You're a sharp one; I can't get anything past you.

.... Few ever ask why I hold the opinions I do, the brighter ones are critical thinkers ....

I doubt that. Critical thinkers know that regardless the subject, support is required. Critical thinkers recognize double standards regardless of subject. Critical thinkers do not gratuitously grant credibility based on the subject pontificator. Critical thinkers look for objectivity. And critical thinkers recognize contradictions.

 

[BasicGreatGuy]

I will argue it does, and that fascism is the greatest threat to our republic in this, the first decade of the new century.
But first, before the debate begins, how do YOU define fascisim (small 'f')?

The greatest threat to this Republic, is "We The People."

And I agree with what Si said, in regards to proper definitions. What she posted, was more in line than what you posted.

 

[Xenophon]

I opposed the invasion of Iraq from the very beginning, so you can't saddle me with that one.

Of course I can as you claim to be a mind reader.

Bringing up chimp is the most common excuse for the excesses of Barry and it won't wash, there never was a 'cult of chimp' and he left office after his term.

THIS white house on teh other hand is another story.

 

[CrusaderFrank]

Wry,

You keep embarrassing yourself by posting "Examples" of "Fascism"when it's clear that you don't like Republicans and want to find any excuse to use that word, but I'll bet you'll use this post as an example of my "Fascism"

No CF, I don't know if you're a fascist thinker or not. Remember, fascisim as I have introduced the term on this thread is not the Fascisim of Italy or National Socialism of Germany; historically fascist governments have some characteristics in common, but fascist (small 'f') governments have ruled in nations other than Germany and Italy.
[by the way, I was challenged to define what I meant by fascism, and when I did was criticized for doing so. I understand the tactic, and feel no need to respond to such rhetoric].
I don't dislike Republicans (of course I'm glad my sister didn't marry one - sorry, a little wry humor); my animosity is focued on the fringe, the extreme elements in our society on both the left and the right.
Remember CF, I'm retired but worked for two different law enforcement agencies for over 32 years; as a deputy I was a dues paying member of the union, and later, as a manager, I spent many an hour arguing with union reps and business agents on the rights of and responsibilities of line staff.
I'm moderate on many issues and quite liberal on others. I identify with the Democratic Party because I believe captal has exploited labor historically, and will do so at any opportunity. But I also believe in personal responsibility and fiscal discipline as well as equality for all.

Right, you can't even tell 'if I'm a fascist thinker or not" because you're a moron who STILL does not have the first clue what fascism is.

 

[Wry Catcher]

But not by you, eh?

I wonder if you can guess what word is on my mind right now.

Would that be hypocrite? ....

You're a sharp one; I can't get anything past you.

.... Few ever ask why I hold the opinions I do, the brighter ones are critical thinkers ....

I doubt that. Critical thinkers know that regardless the subject, support is required. Critical thinkers recognize double standards regardless of subject. Critical thinkers do not gratuitously grant credibility based on the subject pontificator. Critical thinkers look for objectivity. And critical thinkers recognize contradictions.

Oh baloney. How much "support" is required? How much is necessary, and how much is sufficient? My experience with you and your posts, suggests there will never be enough. I'm not sure how old you are, but my final comment came from Transactional Analysis - NIGYYSOB (now I got you you son of a bitch) - published in Games People Play. Ideas as true today as they were back then.
I suggest you post an opinion - and I don't care if you provide support or not. As I've suggested before, your posts are those of a crumudgeon in need of an ego boost. Games such as you seem to enjoy are a waste of time.

 

[Wry Catcher]

any one who thinks America is fascist has no idea what fascism is.

Please tell us Oh wise one.

if i have to tell you then you are probably too stupid to understand. what the fuck do you think is fascist about America? we live in a country where both filthy hippies and teabaggers can protest to their heats content, we have so much freedom that nutjobs can openly carry firearms in proximity to where our President is appearing, like stated anybody that thinks this country is fascist has no idea what fascism is about.

I suggest you read the OP; I offered an opinion and asked a question. What followed was in response to questions or challenges to me. Read above if your interested in who and what I believe are the greatest threat to this nation. I even posted their names. The individuals named are in my humble opinion fascists. Small 'f', meaning they do not all belong to a formal political party which has a platform, such as the Republican Party the Libertarian Party or the Reform Party. Many are members of the Republcian Party, but are not mainstream Republicans. They are not all elected officals; they come from government, business, the media and religious affiliations.
I asked before, and you punted, so l ask again. Tell me, what is fascism in your opinion? I my be wrong, but I'm not stupid.

 

[Wry Catcher]

Wry,

You keep embarrassing yourself by posting "Examples" of "Fascism"when it's clear that you don't like Republicans and want to find any excuse to use that word, but I'll bet you'll use this post as an example of my "Fascism"

No CF, I don't know if you're a fascist thinker or not. Remember, fascisim as I have introduced the term on this thread is not the Fascisim of Italy or National Socialism of Germany; historically fascist governments have some characteristics in common, but fascist (small 'f') governments have ruled in nations other than Germany and Italy.
[by the way, I was challenged to define what I meant by fascism, and when I did was criticized for doing so. I understand the tactic, and feel no need to respond to such rhetoric].
I don't dislike Republicans (of course I'm glad my sister didn't marry one - sorry, a little wry humor); my animosity is focued on the fringe, the extreme elements in our society on both the left and the right.
Remember CF, I'm retired but worked for two different law enforcement agencies for over 32 years; as a deputy I was a dues paying member of the union, and later, as a manager, I spent many an hour arguing with union reps and business agents on the rights of and responsibilities of line staff.
I'm moderate on many issues and quite liberal on others. I identify with the Democratic Party because I believe captal has exploited labor historically, and will do so at any opportunity. But I also believe in personal responsibility and fiscal discipline as well as equality for all.

Right, you can't even tell 'if I'm a fascist thinker or not" because you're a moron who STILL does not have the first clue what fascism is.

Actually I was being kind. I know from the evidence you provide - your words - that you're not a fascist thinker. In fact thinking is not what you do; you emote.

 

[Si modo]

... but the opinions of others must be supported by facts ....

But not by you, eh?

I wonder if you can guess what word is on my mind right now.

Would that be hypocrite? ....

You're a sharp one; I can't get anything past you.

.... Few ever ask why I hold the opinions I do, the brighter ones are critical thinkers ....

I doubt that. Critical thinkers know that regardless the subject, support is required. Critical thinkers recognize double standards regardless of subject. Critical thinkers do not gratuitously grant credibility based on the subject pontificator. Critical thinkers look for objectivity. And critical thinkers recognize contradictions.

Oh baloney. How much "support" is required? ....

[Emphasis added] You are either a moron or colossally dishonest.

As much support is needed as you demand, thus your hypocrisy in your OP where you refused to provide an OUNCE of support or even your own opinion.

Liar.

Weasel.

 

[ihopehefails]

I would say "yes" but its not that it has arrived but has been here creeping very slowly into our political thinking and contrary to the left fascism isn't some dude getting rich while others are poor but a concept of society and the personas within it being determined by the government.

A good example is republicans claiming "family values" and democrats claiming to be against "racism" because each side is saying that we can create society to have this value of family values or anti-racism depending on what party you pick. Neither side seems to realize that society and individuals within it can be there own person and have whatever values it wishes without having the government poke and prod them into the direction it wants them to take. Essentially government should be a neutral agent in our lives that has no interest in what shape our lives will take.

 

[Wry Catcher]

Oh baloney. How much "support" is required? ....

[Emphasis added] You are either a moron or colossally dishonest.

As much support is needed as you demand, thus your hypocrisy in your OP where you refused to provide an OUNCE of support or even your own opinion.

Liar.

Weasel.

Thank you for sharing. I suppose characterizing you as, "as welcome as a turd in a punch bowl" in another thread soured any possible constructive conversation between us. My original post was not meant to inform, it was meant to stimulate debate. When challenged to offer my opinion I did.
You may feel you've won, though I don't see this forum or any message board as a competition. I enjoy debate; but not with you. It's the TIAPB reason.

 

[Wry Catcher]

I will argue it does, and that fascism is the greatest threat to our republic in this, the first decade of the new century.
But first, before the debate begins, how do YOU define fascisim (small 'f')?

This is my OP; any takers?

 

[Si modo]

[Emphasis added] You are either a moron or colossally dishonest.

As much support is needed as you demand, thus your hypocrisy in your OP where you refused to provide an OUNCE of support or even your own opinion.

Liar.

Weasel.

Thank you for sharing. I suppose characterizing you as, "as welcome as a turd in a punch bowl" in another thread soured any possible constructive conversation between us. My original post was not meant to inform, it was meant to stimulate debate. When challenged to offer my opinion I did.
You may feel you've won, though I don't see this forum or any message board as a competition. I enjoy debate; but not with you. It's the TIAPB reason.

I can certainly understand how you find this experience unpleasant. That's your own turd you're looking at. You don't like it? It's simple; don't shit in your own thread. And, certainly don't get so desperate as to play the victim card - you are a victim of own actions.

From the OP you provided shit. Several asked you for some support or even an OPINION from you, because that is how debate actually works. Somehow you got defensive about it. Yes, the internet is such serious business that you can't even follow normal format when asked?

Then you weasel and weasel and weasel again. And at that point, you become the clown of your own making.

It matters not to me who a poster is, rather what they post gets my focus.

 

[Wry Catcher]

No takers? Only one more red herring and another ad hominem attack from SI modo, how boring.

 

[CrusaderFrank]

No takers? Only one more red herring and another ad hominem attack from SI modo, how boring.

When you finally figure out what Fascism really is, we can talk about it

 

[Wry Catcher]

Fascism (BIG 'F')

by Dr. Paul M. Johnson
Fascism
A class of political ideologies (and historical political regimes) that takes its name from the movement led by Benito Mussolini that took power in Italy in 1922. Mussolini's ideas and practices directly and indirectly influenced political movements in Germany (especially the Nazi Party), Spain (Franco's Falange Party), France, Argentina, and many other European and non-European countries right up to the present day.

The different "fascist" movements and regimes have varied considerably in their specific goals and practices, but they are usually said to be characterized by several common features:

1.Militant nationalism, proclaiming the racial and cultural superiority of the dominant ethnic group and asserting that group's inherent right to a special dominant position over other peoples in both the domestic and the international order

2.The adulation of a single charismatic national leader said to possess near superhuman abilities and to be the truest representation of the ideals of the national culture, whose will should therefore literally be law

3.Emphasis on the absolute necessity of complete national unity, which is said to require a very powerful and disciplined state organization (especially an extensive secret police and censorship apparatus), unlimited by constitutional restrictions or legal requirements and under the absolute domination of the leader and his political movement or party

4.Militant anti-Communism coupled with the belief in an extreme and imminent threat to national security from powerful and determined Communist forces both inside and outside the country

5.Contempt for democratic socialism, democratic capitalism, liberalism, and all forms of individualism as weak, degenerate, divisive and ineffective ideologies leading only to mediocrity or national suicide

6.Glorification of physical strength, fanatical personal loyalty to the leader, and general combat-readiness as the ultimate personal virtues

7.A sophisticated apparatus for systematically propagandizing the population into accepting these values and ideas through skilled manipulation of the mass media, which are totally monopolized by the regime once the movement comes to power

8.A propensity toward pursuing a militaristic and aggressive foreign policy

9.Strict regulation and control of the economy by the regime through some form of corporatist economic planning in which the legal forms of private ownership of industry are nominally preserved but in which both workers and capitalists are obliged to submit their plans and objectives to the most detailed state regulation and extensive wage and price controls, which are designed to insure the priority of the political leadership's objectives over the private economic interests of the citizenry. Therefore under fascism most of the more important markets are allowed to operate only in a non-competitive, cartelized, and governmentally "rigged" fashion.

 

[Mr.Fitnah]

Fair enough. IMO fascism in twenty-first century America is characterised by jingoism, chauvinism, unilateralism, zero sum game politics and hypocrisy; militarism, disdain for human rights and academic freedom, obsession with national security, scapegoating, and propaganda infused with hate and fear of some group (by race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, ethnicity or region). For a start.

Id say there is a fascism of political correctness and multiculturalism .


Swimming upstream

SNip
The overwhelmingly liberal atmosphere on campus is well known. In the one place in society at which there should be diversity of thought, exploration of conflicting ideas and a propensity to challenge conventional wisdom, we have instead a mind-numbing conformity of opinion and a complete unwillingness to entertain any thought or idea that deviates from the accepted truth. That conformity encompasses:

The legitimacy of virtually any program that promotes the interests of minority and female faculty, staff and students, even if the program is blatantly racist or sexist -- justified by a belief that America's past unjust treatment of blacks, American Indians and Japanese-Americans, and its unfair treatment of women render such discrimination necessary and lawful.
A multicultural mentality, which preaches that America's Eurocentric, white, Christian heritage is responsible for colonialism, imperialism, racism and sexism, and that its replacement by a culture that "celebrates diversity" will transform the US into a more just and humane society.
A distrust of free markets and democratic capitalism, and its severe limitation in favor of a centralized, government-controlled economy that will redistribute the wealth of America more fairly.
A denigration of religious belief and its replacement by the "worship" of secular humanism, with mindless environmentalism occupying a central place in the new religion.

Not being in sync with any of this, how did I cope? Not so well, actually. First of all, it took me a long time to recognize and accept that the university atmosphere I knew as a student was gone. Initially, I was too busy pursuing my career and building my academic resume to notice what a fish out of water I had become.

My epiphany came about 20 years ago at the inauguration of a new campus president. In his acceptance speech, he said many things that seemed bizarre to me, but the comment I recall most vividly was his insistence that he would create a world-class university by building "excellence through diversity." His point seemed to be that by substantially increasing the number of minority and female faculty, staff and students (and consequently decreasing the number of white males), this would of necessity make us a great university.

I always thought that the best way to build a great university was to attract the brightest, most innovative and productive faculty and students -- regardless of their hue -- but I realized at that moment, as the applause for his idea rained down, how out of step I was.


American Thinker: Swimming Upstream: The Life of a Conservative Professor in Academia