In this episode, I speak with Shane Burley, author of "Fascism Today: What It Is and How To End It." In the beginning of this interview, Shane provides a precise description of what fascism is, the historical context in which it first emerged, as well what fascist organizing in modern American society looks like. We discuss and break down the pseudo-scientific claims espoused by many of these groups regarding the concepts of race, as well as the reasons as to why and how these widely dismissed pseudo-scientific claims still exist and continue to spread among the far-right.
Shane also responds to a recent statement by Richard Spencer, the poster boy of the Alt-Right, in which he states that speaking at events to promote his views is no longer "fun" due to the fact that “Antifa [anti-fascist resistance] is winning."* Shane also describes the varied tactics used by anti-fascists that successfully undermine the ability of fascists groups to promote their ideology to the broader public, as well as their ability to effectively organize in the public sphere, as well as online.
Shane Burley is a writer and filmmaker based in Portland, Oregon, who regularly reports on far-right movements in the US, as well as anti-fascist resistance.
*Source: https://wapo.st/2EGpWt3
Episode Notes:
- Learn more about and purchase Shane's book "Fascism Today: What It Is and How To End It" here: https://bit.ly/2JHcs3B
- Learn more about Shane and his work at his website: https://www.shaneburley.net
- Keep up to date on Shane's work by following him on Twitter: https://twitter.com/shane_burley1
- Read an excerpt of his book "Fascism Today" here: https://bit.ly/2HiftsU
- The music featured in this episode is "Ooh Baby I Like To Draw" by Mux Mool.