The New Fascism: How Corporate Oligarchy and the Revolving Door Threaten Democracy

Fascism is a type of social structure that seems rather broadly defined but always includes the same traits. It is characterized by social segmentation, a fervent nationalism, strict discipline, and harsh oppression by a dictator or dictatorial body (i.e., totalitarianism). Often, it contains elements of physical prowess and a radical ideology.

Many sociologists and social theorists see fascism as more accurately and appropriately being pursued not by a single dictator from political, military, or governmental affairs, but rather by a corporate oligarchy enacting their own interest through the power that money brings.

Personally, I like Franklin Delonar Roosevelt's definition best, which only reinforces my statement(s):

“The liberty of a democracy is not safe if the people tolerate the growth of private power to a point where it becomes stronger than the democratic state itself. That in its essence is fascism: ownership of government by an individual, by a group, or any controlling private power.” 

The problem comes when there is no differentiation between big business and government. "The revolving door" between politics and big business is a term used to describe how big business moguls, CEOs of Fortune 500 companies, and financial, industrial, and agrarian elites go from their jobs in a corporate leadership position to high public office and then back again. If you take a close look, and the information is there, it's not a door anymore but a nicely decorated hallway. The distinction between the American government and big business simply isn't...

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