Neofascism vs. Fascism — What's the Difference?

Neofascism arises as a modern adaptation of fascism, reflecting changes in political, social, and technological landscapes. It often incorporates contemporary issues and rhetoric, including anti-globalization, nationalism, and xenophobia, while leveraging modern technology for propaganda and organization. Fascism, on the other hand, originated in the early 20th century, notably with Mussolini's Italy and Hitler's Germany, emphasizing the totalitarian control of a state by a dictator, aggressive nationalism, and the suppression of political opposition through violence and censorship.

While both ideologies share core elements such as authoritarianism, nationalism, and the desire for a unified national community, neofascism differs in its context and methods of propagation. Neofascists might not explicitly align with historical fascist regimes or symbols but instead focus on contemporary issues and use modern communication methods to spread their message. Fascism, historically, was more directly involved with the state's overt control and expansion through military conquest and the creation of a centralized, authoritarian government.

Neofascism tends to emerge in democratic societies, often working within the political system to gain power, and might not always seek to establish a totalitarian government. It often exploits economic insecurities, cultural fears, and the perceived threats of immigration and globalization. Traditional fascism, in contrast, arose in the aftermath of World War I, exploiting the chaos, economic instability, and the fear of communism to establish dictatorial regimes.

The approach to economic policies also differs. Neofascist movements may not pursue the extensive state control over the economy characteristic of historical fascism but may support a mixed economy with nationalist priorities. Fascism historically advocated for a corporatist economy where industry and government collaborated to control the economy, aiming to create a harmonious national unity and eliminate class conflict.

Despite these differences, both neofascism and fascism fundamentally seek to unite their respective populations against perceived internal and external enemies, using a combination of glorified nationalism, fear-mongering, and the promise of returning to a greater, more powerful state. However, neofascism's adaptation to the modern world means it faces different challenges and opportunities than its predecessor, particularly in how it engages with global issues and technology.