In his article, Joe Lauria discusses the overuse and misuse of the F word (fascism), the C word (censorship), and the N word. He emphasizes that these terms are frequently thrown around without accurate context, particularly in political discourse. Focusing on the term fascism, Lauria argues that it’s misapplied to various political figures, including Donald Trump, who he claims embodies certain aspects of fascism but may not fully meet the historical criteria. He cites historian Robert Paxton’s definition, noting that fascism is characterized by a community’s obsessive preoccupation with victimhood, leading to a voluntary abandonment of democratic freedoms.
Lauria further examines Trump’s appeal to victimhood among his supporters, drawing parallels with historical fascist movements. He wrestles with whether America is experiencing a phase of authoritarianism or is sliding into fascism, suggesting that while troubling signs exist, the democratic opposition remains substantial.
Shifting to censorship, Lauria reflects on its long history in the U.S., warning against using the term lightly. He distinguishes between actual instances of censorship and editorial decisions that shape what gets published, arguing that labeling the latter as censorship diminishes the significance of genuine violations of free speech. Overall, Lauria paints a grim picture of current political dynamics, labeling the situation a “fucking nightmare.”
