'End Times Fascism' looks at supremacist groups uniting around end-of-the-world ideas
Title: United in an Endless Apocalypse: Supremacists Rally Around Prophecies of Doom
In a world ravaged by disaster, a peculiar phenomenon has emerged: certain supremacist groups have banded together under the banner of "end times fascism." In their new book, "End Times Fascism: And the Fight for the Living World," authors Naomi Klein and Astra Taylor delve into the disturbing motivations behind this alliance, revealing three distinct factions converging on a shared belief: humanity is part of an elite destined to survive the impending apocalypse.
These groups, religious extremists, technofascists, and ethnonationalists, may differ ideologically but are united by a singular conviction: they are the chosen few who will endure the coming apocalypse while others suffer. This shared belief serves as a rallying point, motivating each faction to embrace and even accelerate world-ending horrors.
Klein and Taylor shed light on the entwined histories of messianism and fascism, illustrating how religious extremists have long believed that a final battle between good and evil is necessary for eternal salvation. They trace incidents from the past, such as a mentally ill individual who believed he was chosen to end the world, demonstrating that while such beliefs were not historically influential in global decision-making, they now pose a grave threat.
The rise of technofascists, who envision constructing literal bunkers on Earth and fleeing to Mars or the moon, presents an even more alarming prospect. With their access to powerful technologies and resources, these individuals wield considerable influence against the rest of society. The book highlights a disturbing example of Elon Musk's decision to place a supercomputer in a predominantly Black, working-class neighborhood, drastically increasing the area's air pollution.
Ethnonationalists, the third group, have taken a unique approach to fascism by targeting migrants rather than marginalized citizens within their nations or enemy nations abroad. As climate chaos forces increasing numbers of people to flee their homes, ethnonationalists see migrants as a useful proxy in a world where resources are increasingly scarce.
Despite these grim realities, Klein and Taylor emphasize that resistance to fascist attacks has always existed. Religious leaders of all faiths have opposed genocide and militarism, vocally opposing the twisting of sacred texts to support fascist causes. Protests against fascist immigration purges have united people across races, classes, and faiths, demonstrating the enduring power of resistance movements.
The book concludes with a focus on potential solutions, highlighting leaders like Mexico's President Claudia Sheinbaum and Colombia's President Gustavo Petro, who have implemented landmark policies protecting gig workers and raising the minimum wage. These examples offer hope that humanity can overcome the challenges posed by end times fascism and work towards a more equitable, sustainable future.
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