Fascism: A Warning

Discuss the relationship between democracy and authoritarianism in the book. How does Albright argue that democratic systems can be undermined from within? What steps does she propose to safeguard democracy against rising authoritarian tendencies?

Analyze the use of propaganda in both historical and modern fascist movements. How does Albright highlight the power of propaganda in shaping public opinion and maintaining control in authoritarian regimes? Consider how this plays out in both 20th-century fascism and 21st-century populist movements.

Compare and contrast the rise of fascism in 20th-century Europe with the contemporary political movements Albright discusses. What similarities and differences does she draw between historical fascism and modern authoritarianism. How do fascist ideologies continue to evolve?

Explore the notion of nationalism in the book. How does Albright connect the rise of fascism to nationalist sentiment, and what role does xenophobia play in the appeal of fascist regimes? How do modern examples, such as Orbán’s Hungary, illustrate this relationship?

How does Albright critique the concept of "illiberal democracy" in the book? What does she argue are the dangers of leaders who use democratic processes to undermine democratic values? How does this concept apply to leaders like Viktor Orbán or Recep Tayyip Erdoğan?

Examine Albright’s exploration of the psychological appeal of fascism. Why does she argue that people in times of crisis turn to strongman leaders? How does she connect this to broader human tendencies toward authoritarianism?

Albright discusses how fascist regimes manipulate the law to consolidate power. Analyze how legal structures can be co-opted by authoritarian leaders to legitimize their control. What historical and modern examples does Albright use to demonstrate this?

Discuss the intersection of populism and fascism in the book. How does Albright differentiate between populist movements and outright fascism? In what ways, and to what extent, can populism become a gateway to authoritarian rule?