Describe the role of the individual in fascism. How does this compare to the role of the individual in communism?
Answer (1)
In fascism, the individual is subordinate to the state and its interests. The state is seen as an organic entity, and individuals are viewed as components of this larger organism. Their roles are defined by their contribution to the nation's strength and glory, often emphasizing traditional values, national unity, and unquestioning obedience to authority. Individual rights and freedoms are secondary to the collective good, and dissent is suppressed. The focus is on collective identity and action, with individual expression often stifled. This is achieved through propaganda, censorship, and the use of force to maintain social order. Individual ambition is channeled into serving the state's goals, often through military service or participation in state-sponsored organizations. Communism, in its ideal form, prioritizes the collective over the individual, but the role of the individual is different than in fascism. The communist ideal envisions a classless society where individual needs are met, and individuals contribute according to their abilities and receive according to their needs. While the state plays a significant role in resource allocation and social organization, the ultimate aim is to create a society where individuals are free from exploitation and oppression, allowing for self-actualization and participation in collective decision-making. However, in practice, communist regimes have often deviated significantly from this ideal, resulting in authoritarian rule, suppression of dissent, and the prioritization of the state over individual rights – often mirroring some aspects of fascism in its implementation, even if the stated goals differ significantly. The key difference lies in the stated goal: fascism explicitly celebrates the nation-state and its power, while communism (in theory) aims for a stateless, classless society where the individual's needs are met through collective action. The practical reality in many communist states has often been far from this utopian vision.
