And the signs to look out for
We must avoid the error of defining fascism by reference to historical figures labelled by general agreement fascist. Do that, and it's not difficult to show differences to contemporary candidates for the name.
One very obvious example is fascism's absence of uniform and insignia now: any public today would see it as a pantomime tip-off of coming intentions. Though people still make the second mistake: to suppose that fascism is born fully grown. Once this style of politics has found its strength, jackboots can come later. Then they're not funny anymore.
It's values and rhetoric that give an early warning, especially language that disparages democratic norms and institutions, displays contempt for tolerance, and slyly hints that violence is justifiable.
In this age of the internet and politicians' cynical evasions and bolder lies, there are striking similarities between "Hitler" and too many others who could all too well turn out one, given the chance by events.
