Russell McDougal

Unsurprisingly, my recent editorial entitled “Is Fascism in Fashion?” drew quite a response from readers. A response which continues to affirm my convictions that IDE draws an open minded and quite intelligent international audience.

The reader feedback expressed near unanimous concern about present day US tendencies. You’ll note that I clearly did not say that we are presently a fascist country. It was more of an open discussion as to the possibilities of that. All can draw their own conclusions.

One gentleman suggested I travel the world more to see perspectives other than just “American”. That’s the best idea I’ve heard in a while. Maybe MaryEllen, our publisher, will fund a few years of “research” for me and the Mrs?

Here’s a sample of reader feedback from “Thomas”:

"Enjoyed your article this day in IDE and find much with which to
concur. However, in your "typical traits" of fascism you list something that has been a source of confusion and great misunderstanding since the so called "red baiting" days of the 1950's:

Trait # 11. Patriotic fever is whipped up in regards to "communists" (terrorists, etc).

Your first 10 traits of fascism, as well as traits 12 through 16, all accurately describe communism! Nazism and communism are both fascist. Hitler and Stalin were both fascists and their regimes by definition were both socialist.

I am 65 years old and have been a student of politics since the late '50's and I vehemently disagree that I share a trait of fascism because I recognize in communism and terrorism a threat to my beliefs as a patriotic American.

As I say, I am merely a life long student of political science and
economics and bear no doctorate; so it humbles me to be addressing this reply to you; but this subject is something that has rubbed me raw for a very long time.”

Thank you, Thomas. I also stumbled when seeing that particular trait of historic fascism. There is likely a fine line somewhere between healthy patriotism and blindly following official propaganda.

I would never label someone as ‘fascist’ because of their patriotism. In fact, I believe it is patriotic to be having this discussion. Patriotism is a very good thing. It can, however, be carried to an extreme and also be abused by authorities. You are one hundred percent correct to decry such a label for your genuine patriotism.

People are fantastic pretty much wherever I’ve had the privilege of traveling. Oppressive governments are another story entirely. We are soon to visit one of the most oppressed countries on Earth- communist China. You’ll be hearing about this adventure.

No thinking person wants their government to become authoritarian and limit individual liberties. I decry any trend in that direction.

Clearly, we’ve strayed far from our roots. The US has long since passed into overt socialism. Socialism works in some places but it’s not for me. I guess you could say that most of my best friends are socialists. Smile.

We’re now pretty close to being a similar entity to that which we gained our independence from so long ago. That is sad. I don’t want a King George, King John, King Barack or Queen Hillary. Much less have powerful entities behind the scenes pull their strings.

Some will question my patriotism in even bringing up this topic. Not my problem as freedom of speech is still the law of the land. My allegiance is to the US Constitution and the principles laid down by our Founding Fathers. Those who trample on these inherent truths are the ones who should be called into question. Excuse me, didn’t they swear to uphold same?

You can endlessly debate the various meanings of communists, fascists or socialists. They all have a lot of commonality. Let’s call them commufascisocialists. Again, these ideologies are the absolute antithesis of our Constitution and Bill of Rights. If we stray we will pay. We’ve clearly strayed.

Once again, let’s look at some of the primary “free man” principles that were the basis of the “great American experiment” via our Constitution:

1. The purpose of the state is to guarantee individual liberties, and to protect property and citizens.
2. Individuals have natural rights with or without the state.
3. Economic markets are to be free, open and honest - “free enterprise.”
4. Money has sound backing.

This is your birthright! Whether you are American, European, African, Chinese or any other nationality. The “great American experiment” has largely been squandered locally. The US Constitution stands in the way of the global entities that intend to enslave all. That is the reason for its ongoing dismantling.

With or without the United States I will adhere to its founding principles. The American spirit, founded upon “free man” ideals, will live long past its originator. It requires duplication wherever discerning and enlightened people exist. You do not have to be a country to embrace all that has historically been beautiful about “America”.

Some have taken their liberties for granted. History says they will lose them. They are now yours for the taking. These freedoms came about because of a few brave and determined citizens. Men and women are no different anywhere across the globe. We all yearn to be free. It is an eternal struggle.

You might consider forwarding these articles to someone who is open to a better way of life. “All men are created equal”. That doesn’t just apply to Americans.

Live Resourcefully,

Rusty

P.S.  To let me know what you thought of today's article, send an e-mail to: feedback@investorsdailyedge.com.