Fascism and Liberalism

Comparison Essay # 104966

Political Science > Political Theory

A comparative analysis of the competing ideologies of fascism and liberalism.

1,509 words () | 11 sources | MLA | 2008 United States

Paper Summary:

This paper discusses how the two ideologies of fascism and classical liberalism are at opposite ends of the political spectrum in almost every category, but most significantly in terms of how each places the role of the individual within the larger community. It looks at how the basic role of the individual, in terms of rights and duties, is what defines both of these political ideologies and how, by interpreting that role in exactly opposite ways, these political philosophies create by extrapolation two very different views of society, government, and mankind.

From the Paper:

"Classical liberalism, the older of the two ideologies, developed in both England and France during the 18th century as a response to centuries of monarchical despotism and religious strife; it championed reason and individualism and had its natural expression in republicanism and in the American and French revolutions. It asserted the "equality of all men by nature" (Locke II.5). However, as the fascists would later point out, rather than seeing an end to international strife, the triumph of classical liberal ideals led to further bloodshed and civil strife, especially in France. Not long after the French revolution, Napoleon's rise put an end to ideals of peace and rationalism, as well as republicanism, and initiated the worst series of wars to be seen in Europe prior to the 20th century."