I want to discuss an often misunderstood and profoundly impactful political system—fascism - Steven Jonas, MD, MPH

Hello, I am Steven Jonas, MD, MPH. Today, I want to discuss an often misunderstood and profoundly impactful political system—fascism. “Fascism is a system of government in which there is no separation of powers, and the Executive is in control of all branches of the State apparatus, including the judiciary. It is designed to maintain and expand the power of the State for the benefit of a capitalist ruling class. Fascism is characterized by the use of racism, misogyny, and xenophobia, in various proportions, as well as force and terror, to maintain its control. The State may have a single charismatic leader. There may be a single national ideology supported by law, but if not, certain ideologies are banned by law, and certain religious or non-religious views are criminalized. There are no independent media.” This quote defines fascism not merely as a historical phenomenon but as a mechanism of oppression and control. In the 20th century, fascism manifested in regimes like Mussolini's Italy and Hitler's Germany. These regimes consolidated power through propaganda, fear, and violence, dismantling checks and balances to serve the interests of a ruling elite. They used racism, misogyny, and xenophobia as tools to divide and dominate, scapegoating minorities to galvanize their base. Media became a mere extension of state power, amplifying propaganda while silencing dissent.