Why some people love fascists and how artists can fight back
In a time of fascism, we must fight back
The attraction to authoritarian leaders can stem from various psychological, social, and political factors. Some major impulses include the desire for stability and order. In times of crisis, uncertainty, or social upheaval, people may crave strong leadership that promises stability and order. Authoritarian leaders often present themselves as decisive and capable of restoring control. When people feel threatened, they might support leaders who promise protection and security, even at the cost of some personal freedoms. This can be particularly compelling in situations involving external threats, crime, or terrorism.
Economic anxiety also plays a significant role. Economic hardship or perceived threats to economic well-being can drive people toward leaders who claim they can fix economic problems and protect jobs, often by taking decisive, unilateral actions. Additionally, authoritarian leaders often appeal to nationalistic, cultural, or religious identities, creating a sense of unity and belonging among their supporters. This can be particularly powerful in times of social fragmentation or when people feel their identity is under threat.
Disillusionment with democracy is another factor. When democratic institutions are perceived as ineffective, corrupt, or unresponsive, people might turn to authoritarian leaders who promise to cut through bureaucracy and get things done. Authoritarian leaders often have a charismatic appeal, presenting themselves as strong, confident, and capable of solving complex problems. Their personal magnetism can attract followers who feel inspired by their vision and rhetoric. It's important to note that these impulses can vary among individuals and societies, and not everyone who supports an authoritarian leader does so for the same reasons.
Arts to the rescue
"Children of Paradise" (Les Enfants du Paradis), directed by Marcel Carné and released in 1945, is a remarkable example of how the arts can resist and circumvent authoritarian controls. The film was made during the Nazi occupation of France, a time when artistic expression was heavily censored and controlled. The film's narrative, set in the 19th-century Parisian theater world, subtly critiques authoritarianism and celebrates individual freedom and creativity. The characters' struggles and triumphs reflect the broader human desire for self-expression and resistance against oppression.
Despite the oppressive environment, the film was produced under extremely challenging conditions. The director, Marcel Carné, and his crew had to work secretly, often hiding Jewish crew members and using coded messages to communicate. This act of defiance itself was a powerful statement against fascist control. The film uses the theater as a metaphor for the world, where characters perform their roles while hiding their true selves. This mirrors the way people under authoritarian regimes often had to mask their true identities and beliefs to survive.
Released shortly after the liberation of Paris, the film provided hope and inspiration to a war-weary audience. Its success and enduring legacy demonstrate the power of art to uplift and unite people in the face of adversity. "Children of Paradise" is not just a film; it's a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring power of art to challenge and overcome authoritarianism.
One notable film is "Metropolis," directed by Fritz Lang and released in 1927. This silent film is set in a futuristic city sharply divided between the working class and the city planners. The story follows the son of the city's mastermind who falls in love with a working-class prophet predicting the coming of a savior to mediate their differences. The film's powerful visuals and themes of class struggle and resistance against oppressive systems have made it a timeless classic.
Another significant film is "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid," directed by George Roy Hill and released in 1969. This film tells the story of two outlaws on the run from a posse after a train robbery goes wrong. Their journey to escape to South America is filled with adventure and defiance against the authorities, capturing the spirit of rebellion and the fight for freedom.
"Deliverance," directed by John Boorman and released in 1972, is another film that resonates with anti-authoritarian themes. The story follows a group of friends on a canoeing trip in the American back-country, where they encounter danger and must fight for survival. The film's exploration of human resilience and the struggle against oppressive forces in nature and society makes it a compelling watch.
In the realm of art, the works of Francisco Goya stand out. His series of etchings titled "The Disasters of War" depicts the horrors of the Peninsular War and the brutalities of authoritarian rule. Goya's powerful and haunting images serve as a stark reminder of the human cost of oppression and the enduring spirit of resistance.
Similarly, the music of Dmitri Shostakovich, particularly his Symphony No. 7, also known as the "Leningrad Symphony," is a profound artistic response to authoritarianism. Composed during the siege of Leningrad in World War II, the symphony is a powerful expression of defiance and resilience in the face of tyranny.
These films and artworks, like "Children of Paradise," capture the essence of resistance against authoritarianism and celebrate the human spirit's enduring quest for freedom and self-expression.