VIDEO The New Fascism Will Manifest Online Where the People Are (w/Guest David Frum)

The New Fascism Will Manifest Online Where the People Are (w/Guest David Frum) In a thought-provoking discussion, Thom Hartmann interviews David Frum, a senior editor at The Atlantic, to explore the alarming rise of authoritarianism in contemporary politics, particularly in the context of Donald Trump's administration. Frum draws parallels between today's political landscape and historical authoritarian regimes, suggesting that what we are witnessing is a unique manifestation of kleptocratic authoritarianism rather than a continuation of conventional Republican governance. Frum argues that the traditional frameworks of understanding political behavior are failing to capture the uniqueness of Trump's presidency. He emphasizes that both Republicans and Democrats have struggled to recognize the discontinuity that Trump represents, leading to ineffective responses to his leadership. The former Republican agenda that many cling to no longer applies in dealing with this new political reality.

Key Points from the Discussion​

1. Online Authoritarianism: Frum posits that modern authoritarianism thrives online, where public engagement occurs. He asserts that social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook have become battlegrounds for political control, shifting the focus from traditional public square dynamics to digital spaces where power is wielded differently.
2. Shift in Power Dynamics: The conversation highlights how current governance tactics aren't about direct suppression or violence as seen in the past. Instead, they leverage existing bureaucratic systems to protect allies rather than punish wrongdoers, illustrating a shift in how power and corruption operate in politics today.
3. Historical Analogies: Frum refrains from directly comparing Trump to figures like Hitler or Mussolini, noting that such comparisons often cloud understanding. Instead, he suggests that the rise of authoritarianism today is more akin to the tactics employed by Viktor Orbán in Hungary or leaders in the Philippines, where the facade of democracy remains while fundamental freedoms are eroded.
4. Community Engagement: A significant aspect of resistance discussed in the interview is the need for informed citizenship and collective organizing. Frum urges listeners to become more engaged in the democratic process, emphasizing the ballot box's importance over protests, as well as the need for community interaction which has diminished in the digital age.
5. The Role of Technology: The conversation also covers how technology has altered social interactions and public discourse, leading to increased isolation and susceptibility to divisive rhetoric, which authoritarian figures exploit to undermine democratic norms. This conversation reflects a critical examination of the current political milieu, encouraging viewers to reassess their understanding of power and authority in the digital age. Feel free to share your thoughts on this topic or related experiences in the comments. What do you believe are effective strategies to counter this trend of online authoritarianism? Let's discuss!