this post was submitted on 08 Nov 2024
628 points (97.1% liked)
196
16490 readers
3147 users here now
Be sure to follow the rule before you head out.
Rule: You must post before you leave.
founded 1 year ago
MODERATORS
you are viewing a single comment's thread
view the rest of the comments
view the rest of the comments
So low-strata fascists are typically like low strata cultists^†^ in that they're typically drawn in by neo-nazis (or whoever) giving an ounce of regard to them when they're alone and socially isolated. The indoctrination and costly identity markers follow.
At least this is my take based on stories I've heard from those who have escaped hate groups, militant groups and dangerous NRMs. Transition from membership to outsider (optimally involved in more benign social groups) is difficult and takes a while.
That said, fascists are dangerous both by being politically active (in the US, politically active in a system where safety checks have been stripped away or subverted) and by being violent or engaging in direct action. And in these cases, doing what is necessary to stop them can qualify as self-defense.
† As a cult researcher, I feel the need to define this, since cult is a loaded word. By low-strata cultist I mean a low-rung member of a dangerous NRM or seller from an MLM.