Fascism

A Very Short Introduction

By: Kevin Passmore

Narrated by: Pam Ward

What is fascism? Is it revolutionary? Or is it reactionary? Can it be both?

Fascism is notoriously hard to define. How do we make sense of an ideology that appeals to streetfighters and intellectuals alike? That is overtly macho in style, yet attracts many women? That calls for a return to tradition while maintaining a fascination with technology? And that preaches violence in the name of an ordered society?

In the new edition of this Very Short Introduction, Kevin Passmore brilliantly unravels the paradoxes of one of the most important phenomena in the modern world - tracing its origins in the intellectual, political, and social crises of the late 19th century, the rise of fascism following World War I, including fascist regimes in Italy and Germany, and the fortunes of "failed" fascist movements in Eastern Europe, Spain, and the Americas. He also considers fascism in culture, the new interest in transnational research, and the progress of the far right since 2002.

©2014 Kevin Passmore (P)2018 Tantor

Brings Clarity to a Resurging Topic

Great examples that explain fascism in its multitude of historical contexts. The analysis of how fascist groups incorporated average citizens and institutions into their regimes is insightful. Highly recommend this book, although the narration could be better if it had a more even tone, instead of over-emphasizing.