Capitalism is an economic system. Fascism is a political system. Capitalism could theoretically exist in a democracy, and doesn’t need this level of violence to maintain power. Of course capitalism and fascism often walk hand, but respectfully, I think we are seeing a different beast here; and something far more frightening.
Here's a deeper explanation of the relationship(s) between Capitalism and Fascism ->
Lenin has a famous quote - "Fascism is capitalism in decay". This quote carries immense significance in understanding the relationship between these two ideologies. At its core, this quote suggests that Fascism, as an extreme form of authoritarianism, arises as a result of the deterioration or decline of capitalist systems. To comprehend the true depth of this statement, we will explore the meaning of capitalism in decay, the essence of fascism, and the unexpected philosophical concept of dialectical materialism to provide a fresh perspective on the quote.Capitalism, as an economic system, thrives on the principles of individualism, private ownership of means of production, and the pursuit of profit. However, over time, various inefficiencies and contradictions emerge within capitalist structures. This decay can be observed in widening wealth disparities, the commodification of human labor, and environmental degradation, among other issues. The quote portrays fascism as a consequence of this decay, suggesting that when capitalism reaches a certain breaking point, it can give rise to extreme forms of authoritarian control.Fascism, on the other hand, is an extreme right-wing ideology characterized by dictatorial power, nationalist fervor, and the suppression of dissent. It promotes a strong central authority, often led by a single leader, who imposes conformity and suppresses individual rights. Fascism seeks to unite a nation under an iron-fisted rule by appealing to national pride and stoking fears of perceived threats. It provides a means for those disillusioned with the shortcomings of capitalism to find solace in an alternative system that promises stability and control.
Now, let me attempt to analyze the relationship between Capitalism and Fascism through the lens of 'dialectical materialism' (which is derived from Marxist theory, and offers an analytical framework to understand historical and societal changes. It views history as a series of conflicts and contradictions between opposing forces).
Applying this concept to the quote brings forth an intriguing perspective – the interplay between capitalism and fascism exemplifies the dialectical nature of societal change. According to dialectical materialism, the decay of capitalism leads to the emergence of fascism as a contradictory force. As capitalism reaches its limits, it generates immense discontent and fractures in society, laying the groundwork for the rise of fascism. Fascism, though rooted in the decay of capitalism, represents a polar opposite ideology that offers an authoritarian solution to the perceived failures of the capitalist system.
In essence, the quote by Lenin encapsulates the cyclical nature of societal change and the intricate relationship between capitalism and fascism. It suggests that the decay of capitalism creates conditions ripe for the rise of fascism as an alternative system promising stability and order. This perspective allows us to view capitalism and fascism not merely as isolated ideologies, but as interconnected aspects of a complex societal transformation.
>>"but respectfully, I think we are seeing a different beast here"
I think THAT's where we disagree. You consider them to be DIFFERENT beasts. For me, they are the SAME beast, just different development stages of the beast (i.e. Capitalism IS fascism - but it takes a while to rear its head - and even after it has outed itself, many peeple still do not recognize it for what it is (such as yourself here) - preferring to think of it as DIFFERENT beasts instead of different PHASES of the SAME beast).
People talk about the 'political economy' because political and economic systems cannot really be separated as cleanly as many people assume they can. Whether it is feudalism, socialism, communism, or capitalism (or whatever else) - the 'economic system' INLFUENCES the 'political system' to such an extent that they become one (hence the term 'political economy').
Capitalism is an economic system. Fascism is a political system. Capitalism could theoretically exist in a democracy, and doesn’t need this level of violence to maintain power. Of course capitalism and fascism often walk hand, but respectfully, I think we are seeing a different beast here; and something far more frightening.
Here's a deeper explanation of the relationship(s) between Capitalism and Fascism ->
Lenin has a famous quote - "Fascism is capitalism in decay". This quote carries immense significance in understanding the relationship between these two ideologies. At its core, this quote suggests that Fascism, as an extreme form of authoritarianism, arises as a result of the deterioration or decline of capitalist systems. To comprehend the true depth of this statement, we will explore the meaning of capitalism in decay, the essence of fascism, and the unexpected philosophical concept of dialectical materialism to provide a fresh perspective on the quote.Capitalism, as an economic system, thrives on the principles of individualism, private ownership of means of production, and the pursuit of profit. However, over time, various inefficiencies and contradictions emerge within capitalist structures. This decay can be observed in widening wealth disparities, the commodification of human labor, and environmental degradation, among other issues. The quote portrays fascism as a consequence of this decay, suggesting that when capitalism reaches a certain breaking point, it can give rise to extreme forms of authoritarian control.Fascism, on the other hand, is an extreme right-wing ideology characterized by dictatorial power, nationalist fervor, and the suppression of dissent. It promotes a strong central authority, often led by a single leader, who imposes conformity and suppresses individual rights. Fascism seeks to unite a nation under an iron-fisted rule by appealing to national pride and stoking fears of perceived threats. It provides a means for those disillusioned with the shortcomings of capitalism to find solace in an alternative system that promises stability and control.
Now, let me attempt to analyze the relationship between Capitalism and Fascism through the lens of 'dialectical materialism' (which is derived from Marxist theory, and offers an analytical framework to understand historical and societal changes. It views history as a series of conflicts and contradictions between opposing forces).
Applying this concept to the quote brings forth an intriguing perspective – the interplay between capitalism and fascism exemplifies the dialectical nature of societal change. According to dialectical materialism, the decay of capitalism leads to the emergence of fascism as a contradictory force. As capitalism reaches its limits, it generates immense discontent and fractures in society, laying the groundwork for the rise of fascism. Fascism, though rooted in the decay of capitalism, represents a polar opposite ideology that offers an authoritarian solution to the perceived failures of the capitalist system.
In essence, the quote by Lenin encapsulates the cyclical nature of societal change and the intricate relationship between capitalism and fascism. It suggests that the decay of capitalism creates conditions ripe for the rise of fascism as an alternative system promising stability and order. This perspective allows us to view capitalism and fascism not merely as isolated ideologies, but as interconnected aspects of a complex societal transformation.
>>"Capitalism is an economic system. Fascism is a political system."
I think THIS may be where your misunderstanding/interpretation comes from.
I would recommend reading this book "How Fascism Works: The Politics of Us and Them" by Jason Stanley (https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/38255329-how-fascism-works) as a good introduction to WHAT fascism is, how it comes about, and how it works.
>>"but respectfully, I think we are seeing a different beast here"
I think THAT's where we disagree. You consider them to be DIFFERENT beasts. For me, they are the SAME beast, just different development stages of the beast (i.e. Capitalism IS fascism - but it takes a while to rear its head - and even after it has outed itself, many peeple still do not recognize it for what it is (such as yourself here) - preferring to think of it as DIFFERENT beasts instead of different PHASES of the SAME beast).
People talk about the 'political economy' because political and economic systems cannot really be separated as cleanly as many people assume they can. Whether it is feudalism, socialism, communism, or capitalism (or whatever else) - the 'economic system' INLFUENCES the 'political system' to such an extent that they become one (hence the term 'political economy').