Is the United States Descending into Fascism? A Reflection on Sinclair Lewis's "It Can't Happen Here"

Fascism is often defined as a far-right, authoritarian ultranationalism characterised by dictatorial power, forcible suppression of opposition, and regimentation of society and the economy. The spectre of fascism looms large in contemporary discourse, especially in light of rising political polarisation, the erosion of democratic norms, and the ascendance of nativist and populist ideologies. Sinclair Lewis's 1935 novel "It Can’t Happen Here" serves as a poignant reminder of how easily democratic societies can slip into authoritarianism. This essay examines the parallels between Lewis’s fictional America and the contemporary United States, exploring key indicators that suggest a gradual descent into fascism.

The Roots of Authoritarianism in Lewis’s Novel

In "It Can’t Happen Here," Lewis presents a cautionary tale of how the United States could be transformed into a fascist state under the guise of populist politics. The narrative follows the rise of Berzelius "Buzz" Windrip, a populist politician who capitalises on economic distress, societal fears, and the anxieties of a middle class grappling with instability. Windrip's ascent to power is marked by a combination of charisma and demagoguery, fanning the flames of nativism and anti-intellectualism.

Political Polarisation and the Erosion of Democratic Norms

One of the most alarming trends in contemporary American politics is the increasing polarisation and hostility between factions. Much like Buzz Windrip, modern politicians exploit societal divisions to solidify their power, creating an "us versus them" mentality. The erosion of bipartisan dialogue and the normalisation of deceitful political rhetoric have resulted in a landscape where truth is often secondary to the perception of loyalty and allegiance to a particular party or ideology.

This reflects one of the central themes in Lewis's novel: the fragility of democratic institutions. Windrip's rise is characterised not just by an overtly authoritarian agenda but by the manipulation of democratic processes through a climate of fear and misinformation. Current events, including disinformation campaigns and attempts to undermine electoral integrity, echo this narrative, suggesting that democratic principles can be subverted from within.

The Role of Media and Propaganda

Lewis criticises the power of media and propaganda in shaping public perception and legitimising authoritarian rule. Windrip's regime employs state-controlled media to disseminate propaganda, distort reality, and vilify dissenting voices. In the modern age, social media platforms and alternative news sources play a similar role in shaping ideological bubbles where misinformation flourishes. The challenge lies in sifting through a cacophony of voices to distinguish fact from fiction.

The fragmentation of information sources has contributed to a collective inability to engage in rational discourse, paralleling the climate depicted in "It Can’t Happen Here". As trust in traditional media wanes and conspiracy theories take root, the potential for a manipulated citizenry—willing to overlook authoritarianism in favour of perceived safety or nationalistic pride—grows.

Nativism and Xenophobia

Windrip's platform also relies heavily on nativist sentiment, appealing to those fearful of change and the "other". Similarly, contemporary political movements often use rhetoric involving scapegoats, immigrants and minorities, perpetuating a narrative of decline attributed to outsiders. This nativism is not merely historical; it resurfaces cyclically in American politics, suggesting a deeper societal malady that exacerbates tensions and fosters hostility.

Such sentiments were amplified during the COVID-19 pandemic, where some political figures pointed fingers at specific ethnic groups, reigniting fears that hark back to previous historical epochs of xenophobia and violence. The danger is not merely in these expressions of hatred but in how they can normalize discriminatory policies under the pretext of national security.

Conclusion: The Fine Line Between Democracy and Fascism

The journey toward fascism is often slow and insidious, characterised by a gradual unraveling of democratic institutions and values rather than a sudden and overt coup d'état. Lewis’s "It Can’t Happen Here" serves as a critical reminder that complacency in the face of deteriorating democratic norms is perilous. While America has not yet descended wholly into fascism, the warning signs are present: rising authoritarianism, increasing polarisation, the manipulation of truth, and a resurgence of nativism.

As citizens, it is crucial to remain vigilant and proactive in defending democratic principles, ensuring that history does not repeat itself. The lessons of Lewis's narrative implore us to recognise the fragility of our democratic systems and to engage actively in the civic process, addressing the underlying issues of inequality and disenfranchisement that can so easily be exploited by authoritarian figures. The battle for the soul of democracy is ongoing, and its outcome depends on the collective vigilance and engagement of its citizens. Ultimately, it is up to us to ensure that "It Can't Happen Here" remains just a fictional warning and not a future reality.