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Interpretations of Fascism

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"Interpretation of Fascism" is author James Gregor's attempt to explain, or define, "fascism." While at times one may encounter the word "fascist" used as a slur, it is far less common to hear someone refer to themselves as a fascist. This was not always the case.

Gregor points out that the word "fascism" stems from the latin word for bundle, the roman symbol for strength and unity, and was used by Benito Mussolini's political party. Nailing down its usage in today's political context is more difficult, in that Mussolini's party composition, rhetoric, and actions are not easily definable in the sense of being able to shoe-horn them into a particular category. As Gregor writes, "certain traits are not necessarily fascist. Anti-Semitism, vandalism, brutality, the contempt for the individual, and the love of violence may have been common to fascism, but that information does very little to help us distinguish from simple anti-Semites, vandals, brutes, and those contemptuous individuals."

The premise of the book seems compelling and fascism is a very relevant topic. However, Gregor's writing style may appear to some as boorish and pretentious to the point of distraction.