On defining the ‘Fascist Minimum’: The centrality of ideology

Abstract

Abstract Much of the vast literature on fascism adopts a socio‐economic approach to the problem of definition. Developing from a review of the recent works on three major commentators who have adopted a more political approach to the problem of definition (Zeev Sternhell, Stanley Payne and Roger Griffin), this article argues that fascism was a genuine ideology and that it is best defined in these terms. Generic fascism, transcending place and time, is identified as ‘an ideology that strives to forge social rebirth based on a holistic‐national radical Third Way, though in practice fascism has tended to stress style, especially action and the charismatic leader, more than detailed programme, and to engage in a Manichaean demonisation of its enemies.’ Adopting this definition helps give important insights into why successful fascist movements attracted a remarkably diverse social support, and to central aspects of fascist regimes’ policies.