How Fascism Works: The Politics of Us and Them

Absolutely brilliant! I wish I could have everyone I know read this! Understanding the history of Fascism and it’s present day influence is important beyond measure and this book, in less than 200 pages, is all encompassing of that information we need.

For anyone living in the United States, or around the world, during the Trump second presidency, this book simply and efficiently describes some of the more prescient societal details of our time. A must read, if one truly cares.

Professor Stanley's book is a clearly written, well-documented account of fascism, which he describes as a coherent and cohesive doctrine by which evil can grab and maintain control of initially democratic governments, having deep historical foundations in institutions like colonialism and slavery (see e.g. Hannah Arendt's "The Origins of Totalitarianism" (1950)) and certain traditions, philosophical or otherwise (B.Russell, also ca. 1950). He points out, brilliantly, in my view, some ten basic characteristics by which fascist regimes and practices can be identified, vividly "brought to life" by illustrations from past and current regimes, such as Poland and Hungary among the latter. The one criticism I have of the book is that it may seem to lump together rather relatively mildly offensive trends, such as the pandering of politicians to rural voters' prejudices, with Hitler's death camps at the extreme end. As a friend put it, fascist ideology covers a "spectrum" of means of oppression.

Love this book. Lots of facts and information. Highly recommend it.

This is an informative account of how fascism warps the hearts and minds of those who champion hierarchy in the form of superiority. I appreciated the connection to not just its impact locally but globally in history. While I am concerned at what its impact is revealing I am challenged to speak against its practices.

A great guide to help American voters to choose a better US president in the next election.

In this environment where fascism is currently about to take place in the US, this book provides invaluable lessons. Highly recommend it

Stanley looks at the hallmarks of fascism through a historical lens. His words are prescient, especially when he writes about the normalization of Trump and fascism. A critical addition to a library on fascism we all need in 2025.