One of the most common epithets used on differing worldviews over the past several decades is the term "fascist". This along with comparisons to Hitler and the National Socialists by many, including occasionally by me in comparing the statist moves by the current Left and the moves made by the original NAZIs. The problem with this is that the understanding of the underlying meaning behind fascism varies considerably between individuals, thus muddying the issue and leaving the comparison/epithet without the proper weight.
The same goes for the term "liberal" which no longer has the same meaning as it did during the golden years of the Enlightenment. Originally a term of liberation from the powers that be, it is now a call for statism and expansion of governmental control over the lives of its citizens.
Jonah Goldberg has written a deeply researched book, "Liberal Fascism", which explores the realities of fascism as it currently expresses itself in the American Left. Contrary to stereotype, fascism is not a conservative or Libertarian value. It is a value for the statists.
While I have read the book, I will read it again along with a group over at Libertarian Vox Day's website, who will be reading it and discussing it on-line. This will take place over several weeks, and I think will be quite interesting.
Join in if you're interested in the history and application of fascism in the world today.
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