Politics

[moka]

I had to dig a little deeper to understand the Reich quote. I saw that contradictory mindset of simultaneously craving and rebelling against authority during covid with lots of people talking about “freedom” but also wanting or admiring strong leaders, just as long as they did not limit their freedom.

“Fascist mentality is the mentality of the subjugated “little man” who craves authority and rebels against it at the same time. It is not an accident that all fascist dictators stem from the milieu of the little reactionary man.” (Reich)

Wilhelm Reich's quote captures a key insight into the psychology of fascism.
This mentality is rooted in the experiences of the "subjugated little man" - typically members of the lower middle class or petty bourgeoisie who feel economically and socially insecure. Reich argues that these individuals, raised in authoritarian and patriarchal environments, internalize a conflicted relationship with power and authority.

On one hand, they desire strong leadership and order to provide a sense of security and superiority over others. Yet they also resent their own subordinate position and rebel against the very authority they crave. This internal conflict manifests as support for fascist movements and leaders.

Reich contends that fascist dictators themselves emerge from this same social milieu of the "little reactionary man". Their appeal lies in their ability to embody both the authoritarian father figure and the rebellious son - promising to overthrow the existing elites while instituting an even more rigid hierarchy.

This analysis connects fascism to deeper psychological and social structures, rather than seeing it as merely an ideological movement. Reich emphasizes how sexual repression, patriarchal family dynamics, and economic insecurity combine to produce the fascist mentality.

While Reich's ideas were developed in the context of early 20th century Europe, some scholars argue they remain relevant for understanding modern right-wing populist movements. The appeal of "strongman" leaders to those feeling economically and culturally insecure echoes Reich's description of the fascist mentality's contradictory nature.

[davflaws]

Thanks for sharing davflaws. I agree with you that there is wall to wall availability of material online. When I open YouTube and scroll through there are often about 10 videos I would like to watch that day, so 10 -20 hours. I don’t do that much though. I have found it necessary to monitor my mental health and limit the time I spent on Sharetrader and on the internet and news because it is easy to become overwhelmed and descend into negativity and a sense of hopelessness and powerlessness.

Someone I listen to a lot is Dr. Gabor Maté who has expressed significant concerns about social media use, particularly focusing on its impact on mental health and emotional development. He argues that social media can contribute to emotional underdevelopment and impulsive communication, which can exacerbate feelings of being lost or disconnected. Maté suggests that social media platforms reward behaviors that are not conducive to mental well-being, such as seeking external validation and instant gratification, which can lead to addictive patterns similar to other forms of addiction.

In his broader work on addiction, Maté defines addiction as any behavior that a person craves, finds temporary relief or pleasure in, but ultimately suffers negative consequences from, and yet has difficulty giving up. This definition applies to social media use, where individuals may experience temporary pleasure from likes and comments but suffer from long-term negative effects such as anxiety, depression, and a sense of inadequacy.

Maté's perspective on social media is part of his larger view on trauma and addiction, where he emphasizes the importance of understanding the underlying emotional and psychological wounds that drive addictive behaviors. He advocates for a more compassionate and holistic approach to addressing these issues, focusing on healing and emotional growth.

Gabor Mate is big in this house, with our interests in A&D and couples work from an attachment perspective. I am curently reading "The Myth of Normal" and findig it heavy going...

[Daytr]

I had to dig a little deeper to understand the Reich quote. I saw that contradictory mindset of simultaneously craving and rebelling against authority during covid with lots of people talking about “freedom” but also wanting or admiring strong leaders, just as long as they did not limit their freedom.

“Fascist mentality is the mentality of the subjugated “little man” who craves authority and rebels against it at the same time. It is not an accident that all fascist dictators stem from the milieu of the little reactionary man.” (Reich)

Wilhelm Reich's quote captures a key insight into the psychology of fascism.
This mentality is rooted in the experiences of the "subjugated little man" - typically members of the lower middle class or petty bourgeoisie who feel economically and socially insecure. Reich argues that these individuals, raised in authoritarian and patriarchal environments, internalize a conflicted relationship with power and authority.

On one hand, they desire strong leadership and order to provide a sense of security and superiority over others. Yet they also resent their own subordinate position and rebel against the very authority they crave. This internal conflict manifests as support for fascist movements and leaders.

Reich contends that fascist dictators themselves emerge from this same social milieu of the "little reactionary man". Their appeal lies in their ability to embody both the authoritarian father figure and the rebellious son - promising to overthrow the existing elites while instituting an even more rigid hierarchy.

This analysis connects fascism to deeper psychological and social structures, rather than seeing it as merely an ideological movement. Reich emphasizes how sexual repression, patriarchal family dynamics, and economic insecurity combine to produce the fascist mentality.

While Reich's ideas were developed in the context of early 20th century Europe, some scholars argue they remain relevant for understanding modern right-wing populist movements. The appeal of "strongman" leaders to those feeling economically and culturally insecure echoes Reich's description of the fascist mentality's contradictory nature.

I enjoy your thoughtful posts davflaws and I am one who can be reactionary. I think there is balance between letting things go and standing up to fake news or fascist type agendas, as they don't go away unfortunately.

The problem with social media it has given everyone a voice, me included and that sounds like a good thing, but in reality it connects people with agendas or bad intentions that's they would never have known existed or supported their view and unfortunately it provides them with support of their own view no matter how deluded or dangerous it may be.

I know I could improve with my own interactions, but I do struggle to entertain misogynistic or racist rhetoric etc. My tolerance for such behavior is very limited as I feel it just needs to be stamped on.

Anyway, keep up the good fight.

[moka]

Gabor Mate is big in this house, with our interests in A&D and couples work from an attachment perspective. I am curently reading "The Myth of Normal" and findig it heavy going...

Thanks for reminding me of his book “The Myth of Normal.” I started reading it and never finished, and now I’ve picked it up again. It can be heavy going because it challenges many things you think of as “true” as not true. A bit like believing the world is flat because that is what the authorities and experts told you, and then realising it is not flat. You have been lied to.

A Gabor Mate wrote in the last few paragraphs in the book:

Many of the greatest crimes have been and continue to be perpetrated by people in leadership positions who are deemed to be the epitome of normal in their respective societies, whether it’s the production of toxic and climate-altering chemicals or, say the imposition of policies that lead to mass starvation in countries far away. Hundreds of thousands of Iraqi children died of malnutrition in the 1990s because of US sanctions.
America’s then UN ambassador Madeleine Albright declared that “the price is worth it” in an interview seen by millions.
As we now know, and as anyone could have known back then, there was no credible justification for such heartless cruelty. Albright subsequently became the first woman secretary of state and remains highly respected especially in liberal circles. .

One is reminded of Victor Hugo’s withering phrase for such figures: “the barbarians of civilization.”

[moka]

I enjoy your thoughtful posts davflaws and I am one who can be reactionary. I think there is balance between letting things go and standing up to fake news or fascist type agendas, as they don't go away unfortunately.

The problem with social media it has given everyone a voice, me included and that sounds like a good thing, but in reality it connects people with agendas or bad intentions that's they would never have known existed or supported their view and unfortunately it provides them with support of their own view no matter how deluded or dangerous it may be.

I know I could improve with my own interactions, but I do struggle to entertain misogynistic or racist rhetoric etc. My tolerance for such behavior is very limited as I feel it just needs to be stamped on.

Anyway, keep up the good fight.

Daytr, often it is about picking up the mirror rather than the magnifying glass. That is self-reflection versus judgment, scrutiny of others, and focusing on the flaws or issues of others.

That said there are so many instances these days where people do need to be challenged on their views which perpetuate oppressive and hierarchical culture and practice. And yes, misogynistic or racist rhetoric does need to be challenged.

[moka]

Fascism: A Warning" is a 2018 book by Madeleine Albright, the first woman to serve as U.S. Secretary of State. The book is a personal and urgent examination of fascism in the 20th century and its enduring legacy in contemporary politics. Drawing from her experiences as a child in war-torn Europe and her distinguished career as a diplomat, Albright explores the characteristics and warning signs of fascism, emphasizing its relevance today.

Albright defines a fascist as someone who claims to speak for an entire nation or group, is utterly unconcerned with the rights of others, and is willing to use violence and other means to achieve their goals.

She argues that fascism is not an ideology but a method for seizing and holding power, often involving the rejection of minority rights, the use of propaganda, and the endorsement of violence.

The book profiles various historical and contemporary leaders who exhibit fascist tendencies, including Mussolini, Hitler, Putin, and Kim Jong-un. Albright also discusses the current political climate in the United States, expressing concern over the rise of populism and nationalism, which she views as fertile ground for fascist ideologies. While she stops short of labeling President Donald Trump a fascist, she highlights his autocratic tendencies and the dangers they pose to democratic institutions ."Fascism: A Warning" serves as both a historical analysis and a call to action, urging readers to recognize and resist the signs of fascism in order to protect democratic values and institutions .

[moka]

The concept of the "Banality of Evil" was introduced by philosopher Hannah Arendt in her 1963 book, Eichmann in Jerusalem: A Report on the Banality of Evil. The term emerged from her observations during the trial of Adolf Eichmann, a key organizer of the Holocaust. Arendt's thesis posited that Eichmann was not a fanatic or sociopath but rather an ordinary individual who committed heinous acts through a combination of thoughtlessness, adherence to orders, and a desire for career advancement.

The Banality of Evil, refers in part to Eichmann's deportment at the trial as the man displayed neither guilt for his actions nor hatred for those trying him, claiming he bore no responsibility because he was simply "doing his job." Eichmann was examined by more than half a dozen psychologists while in prison. “These psychologists found no trace of mental illness, including personality disorder. One doctor remarked that his overall attitude towards other people, especially his family and friends, was "highly desirable", another remarked that “the only unusual trait Eichmann displayed was being more "normal" in his habits and speech than the average person.”

Arendt noted that Eichmann's demeanor during the trial was strikingly mundane. He did not exhibit overt hatred or guilt but instead claimed he was merely following orders and fulfilling his duties. This led Arendt to argue that Eichmann's evil was "banal" because it stemmed from a lack of critical thinking and moral reflection rather than from a deeply rooted malevolence. She suggested that this kind of evil could arise from ordinary individuals who, under certain conditions, fail to critically examine their actions and the orders they follow.

Adolf Eichmann (1906-1962) was a high-ranking Nazi official and one of the principal architects of the Holocaust. Born in Solingen, Germany, Eichmann's family moved to Linz, Austria, during World War I. He had an unremarkable early life, working various jobs including as a traveling salesman before joining the Nazi Party and the SS in 1932.

Eichmann quickly rose through the ranks of the SS, becoming deeply involved in Jewish affairs. He was instrumental in the implementation of the "Final Solution," the Nazi plan for the extermination of the Jews. Eichmann's responsibilities included organizing the identification, assembly, and transportation of Jews from across occupied Europe to extermination camps such as Auschwitz.

In January 1942, Eichmann participated in the Wannsee Conference, where Nazi officials formalized plans for the genocide of the Jewish population. Following this, he played a central role in coordinating the logistics of mass deportations and executions.

After World War II, Eichmann was captured by U.S. troops but escaped from a detention camp in 1946. He fled to Argentina, where he lived under an alias until 1960. Israeli Mossad agents captured him in Buenos Aires and brought him to Israel to stand trial.

Eichmann's trial in Jerusalem was highly publicized and lasted from April to December 1961. He was convicted of crimes against humanity, war crimes, and other charges, and was sentenced to death. Eichmann was executed by hanging on May 31, 1962, and his ashes were scattered at sea.

Eichmann's trial was significant not only for its legal outcomes but also for its broader implications in understanding the Holocaust. The trial brought to light the bureaucratic nature of the genocide and Eichmann's role as a key facilitator. His defense, which portrayed him as merely following orders, was widely scrutinized and rejected, highlighting the moral and legal responsibilities of individuals in committing atrocities.

[moka]

Adolf Eichmann at his trial claimed he bore no responsibility because he was simply "doing his job."

In his book “The Myth of Normal” Gabor Mate talks about a person “just doing his job” when he discusses Martin Lindstrom, who is one of the world’s leading children’s marketers. Lindstrom has expressed serious qualms about the results of his work. Lindstrom predicted that his industry would continue to erode children’s imaginations and creative capacities.

Professor Joel Blakan writes that children’s constant and deepening exposures to marketing is leading to a disaster in terms of kids and their futures. These marketers are smart, insightful and quite evil, because they understand what they are doing, Bakan told Gabor Mate.

Lindstrom’s understanding of the child’s mind is alarmingly on point: Emotions drive everything for children… and marketers, to be successful must engage the most fundamental emotions at the deepest level. Love which connotes nurturing, affection, and romance is one of the fundamental emotions, and fear and mastery.

This deft analysis is not intended to help the child’s mind develop towards health, dignity, genuine mastery, and authentic independence, but the polar opposite: to deliberately turn that mind into prey and a lifelong captive of profit-driven market forces. It aims at the direct sabotage of childhood: the period of growth in which the young human is designed by Nature to move toward her full capacities.

Everything the corporate juggernaut foists upon children - prefabricated play options, video games, mass-manufactured toys, gadgets, peer-centric online platforms, and saccharine and superficial television programs targeted at toddlers and preschoolers, along with the mainstreaming of glossy, soulless, porn-inflected depictions of sexuality available to teens and, increasingly to younger kids - has detrimental effects

[davflaws]

Adolf Eichmann at his trial claimed he bore no responsibility because he was simply "doing his job."

In his book “The Myth of Normal” Gabor Mate talks about a person “just doing his job” when he discusses Martin Lindstrom, who is one of the world’s leading children’s marketers. Lindstrom has expressed serious qualms about the results of his work. Lindstrom predicted that his industry would continue to erode children’s imaginations and creative capacities.

Professor Joel Blakan writes that children’s constant and deepening exposures to marketing is leading to a disaster in terms of kids and their futures. These marketers are smart, insightful and quite evil, because they understand what they are doing, Bakan told Gabor Mate.

Lindstrom’s understanding of the child’s mind is alarmingly on point: Emotions drive everything for children… and marketers, to be successful must engage the most fundamental emotions at the deepest level. Love which connotes nurturing, affection, and romance is one of the fundamental emotions, and fear and mastery.

This deft analysis is not intended to help the child’s mind develop towards health, dignity, genuine mastery, and authentic independence, but the polar opposite: to deliberately turn that mind into prey and a lifelong captive of profit-driven market forces. It aims at the direct sabotage of childhood: the period of growth in which the young human is designed by Nature to move toward her full capacities.

Everything the corporate juggernaut foists upon children - prefabricated play options, video games, mass-manufactured toys, gadgets, peer-centric online platforms, and saccharine and superficial television programs targeted at toddlers and preschoolers, along with the mainstreaming of glossy, soulless, porn-inflected depictions of sexuality available to teens and, increasingly to younger kids - has detrimental effects

I suspect not only kids. The algorithms are designed to stir us and keep us clicking. Eyeballs are everything, and if you can provide content that provokes fear and anger, you can attract and keep your audience, and sell their eyeballs to advertisers..