Communism was initially derived from the works of Karl Marx and its underlying principle sought to replace private ownership with communal control (Ball & Dagger, 2017).  Fascism originated with Benito Mussolini (Soucy, 2017).  According to an article I read, fascist parties and movements had varying differences, but had shared characteristics of extreme militaristic nationalism, a strong distaste of electoral democracy and liberalism, and a belief in the rule of elites (Soucy, 2017).  These two philosophies differ in that fascism believed in a deserved hierarchy (Soucy, 2017).  On a basic level, I would say that while democracy does have a hierarchy of power and control, the people are allowed to elect for what they will believe will be for the greater good; these other two philosophies did not really seem to place any power into the hands of the community.

I believe the masses followed these philosophies for varying reasons: instilled fear of repercussion from their leaders, a love/obligation for their country, perceived trust in their leaders, as well as an overall loss of empowerment.  When you look at someone like Hitler for example, I believe he was able to get away with his rule not only because of all these aspects, but also with people’s need and greed for power.  I’m positive that although not everyone that was “close” to him that executed his demands were doing what they thought was right, but continued to do so with a hope of elevation of power and respect if they carried out the job thoroughly.  I also believe there is a type of phenomenon that exists where people stop questioning things after experiencing it a long time…I feel they almost become “forgetful” as a means of self-protection when faced with something so wrong…it sort of redefines their “norm.”  The abnormal becomes normal…

HIST 410N WEEK 2: THE RISE OF TOTALITARIANISM References

Ball, T., & Dagger, R. (2017). Communism. Retrieved from          

Soucy, R. (2017). Fascism. Retrieved from