Fascist Mythologies: The History and Politics of Unreason in Borges, Freud, and Schmitt

Fascism imbued its ideas of the leader, nation, power, and violence with mythic imagery and the fantasy of transcending history, leading to a violently redeemed future. Federico Finchelstein's book explores fascism as a form of political mythmaking, drawing on thinkers such as Jorge Luis Borges, Sigmund Freud, and Carl Schmitt to analyze the mythical and unconscious dimensions of fascist politics. He contrasts their approaches to the logic of unreason and shows the centrality of this opposition to understanding the ideology of fascism.

Format: Hardback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 05 July 2022
Publisher: Columbia University Press

Fascism, for the fascists, was a belief system that merged myth with reality, creating a distorted perception of the world. Their notions of leadership, nation, power, and violence were deeply rooted in mythical imagery and the fantasy of transcending history. The fascists believed that a mythologized primordial past could inspire a heroic overthrow of the debased present, leading to a violently redeemed future.

What sets fascist mythology apart is its ability to shape and influence the ideologies and actions of its followers. It taps into the unconscious desires and fears of people, providing a sense of purpose and identity. By mythologizing the past, the fascists were able to justify their present actions and beliefs, making them appear rational and justified.

This aspect of fascism helps to explain its perils in the past and present. By obscuring the truth and promoting a distorted view of reality, fascist ideologies can lead to the exploitation and oppression of individuals and groups. They can also undermine democratic institutions and promote authoritarianism, ultimately threatening the stability and security of society.

In his book, Federico Finchelstein explores the relationship between fascist mythology and the political ideas of various thinkers, including Jorge Luis Borges, Sigmund Freud, and Carl Schmitt. Finchelstein demonstrates how these thinkers emphasized the mythical and unconscious dimensions of fascist politics, and how their ideas influenced the work of fascist intellectuals. He also examines the limits of the dichotomy between myth and reason and shows how this opposition is central to understanding the ideology of fascism.

At a time when fascism is once again gaining popularity, this book provides a timely historical and critical analysis of the dangers of myth in modern politics. It serves as a reminder that the myths we create and propagate can have profound consequences for ourselves and for society as a whole. By challenging the myths that underpin fascist ideologies, we can work towards building a more inclusive and democratic world.

Weight: 284g
Dimension: 140 x 206 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780231183208