Fascism: A Warning (2018) by Madeleine Albright is an exploration of the global rise of authoritarianism and the fragility of democratic institutions. The work examines the resurgence of fascist ideologies in the 21st century, drawing parallels between historical movements and contemporary political trends. Albright's insights draw upon historical knowledge as well as her personal observations of leaders like Vladimir Putin, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, and Donald Trump. The book explores themes such as The Fragility of Democracy, The Allure of Authoritarianism, and The Responsibility of Leadership, looking at the factors that contribute to the rise of authoritarian regimes. Albright, who served as the first female US Secretary of State and was a professor of international relations, brings her extensive diplomatic experience and personal history—having fled Nazi-occupied Czechoslovakia as a child—to her analysis of the threats facing modern democracies.

This study guide uses the 2018 Harper Perennial Kindle edition.

Content Warning: The source text includes discussions of violence, racism, genocide, and antisemitism.

Summary

The book opens by tracing the history of fascism, from its origins in 20th-century Europe to its modern resurgence. Albright explores the political and economic instability that enabled figures like Benito Mussolini and Adolf Hitler to rise to power. She argues that fascism thrives in moments of crisis when citizens, disillusioned with failing institutions, turn to authoritarian leaders for security and stability. Mussolini and Hitler manipulated democratic processes, exploited nationalism, and used propaganda to consolidate power. Albright examines how their regimes stoked fear, xenophobia, and violence, often scapegoating vulnerable groups to unite the population against a perceived “enemy.”

Moving beyond historical fascism, Albright addresses its enduring appeal in the modern era. While fascist regimes collapsed after World War II, the underlying ideologies of nationalism, authoritarianism, and suppression of dissent remain potent. Albright points to contemporary leaders like Putin, Erdoğan, Viktor Orbán, and Nicolás Maduro, who have employed similar tactics to undermine democratic systems. These leaders, she argues, have exploited populist movements, using nationalism and fear to erode democratic norms while maintaining the veneer of democratic legitimacy.

A central argument of the book is that fascism is not confined to a particular ideology or era but is a flexible method of gaining and maintaining power. Albright emphasizes that while fascist policies may vary by context, the tactics—fear, division, and the erosion of democratic principles—are consistent across regimes. Fascism’s adaptability makes it an ever-present threat to democracy.

The book is particularly concerned about the state of democracy in the United States. She draws parallels between Donald Trump’s populist rhetoric, attacks on the press, and undermining of democratic norms with the tactics of earlier authoritarian leaders. While she stops short of labeling Trump a fascist, Albright warns that his disregard for democratic institutions and divisive policies have weakened the foundations of American democracy. She also highlights the role of social media in spreading misinformation, contributing to the polarization of society and amplifying extremist voices.

The importance of leadership in either fostering or preventing authoritarianism is another key theme in the book. Albright contrasts authoritarian figures with leaders like Winston Churchill, Franklin D. Roosevelt, and Nelson Mandela, who worked to preserve and protect democratic institutions during times of crisis. She argues that strong leadership, rooted in democratic values, is crucial for preventing the rise of authoritarian regimes, especially in uncertain times when citizens may be tempted to support authoritarian leaders promising easy solutions.

Throughout the book, Albright calls for vigilance and active participation in democratic processes. She urges citizens to vote, stay informed, and hold leaders accountable to protect democratic values. Additionally, she underscores the importance of international cooperation in combating authoritarianism. Albright highlights the role of institutions like the United Nations and NATO in upholding global peace and warns that weakening these institutions leaves the world vulnerable to the spread of authoritarianism.

Albright reflects on the lessons of history, warning that while fascism may seem like a relic, its core ideas persist and threaten democracies worldwide. She stresses the importance of recognizing the warning signs of authoritarianism and maintaining an unwavering commitment to democratic principles of freedom, equality, and justice.