Word of Mouth
The Language of Fascism
May 9, 2023
In a captivating conversation, Jason Stanley, the Jacob Urowsky Professor at Yale University and author on propaganda, discusses the insidious nature of fascist language. He delves into how propaganda and slogans shape societal beliefs about purity and identity. The dialogue explores dehumanizing rhetoric, drawing parallels between historical atrocities and modern political discourse. Stanley also highlights the alarming rise of fascist rhetoric today, revealing how language manipulates public perception and can incite violence.
27:33
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Quick takeaways
- Fascist language evolves over time, shifting from fear-based rhetoric in social movements to a more respectable tone in governance that reinforces national identity.
- Emotion is crucial in fascist rhetoric, as it evokes a longing for a mythic past while dehumanizing perceived internal enemies to justify extreme measures.
Deep dives
The Evolution of Fascist Language
Fascist language is deeply rooted in concepts of purity and fear, often painting a picture of a nation threatened by foreign elements. This language evolves over time, particularly when fascism transitions from a social movement to a governing regime. For instance, once in power, fascist leaders adopt a more respectable tone, distancing themselves from violent street elements while asserting their identity as the state. This shift often brings a change in rhetoric, reflecting a need to unify and legitimize their authority through appealing to an idealized national identity.
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