I recently came across a report on abuse in the games industry which inspired me to tell my own story. While the abuse I encountered wasn’t directed at me, it was still surprising to encounter.
Writing
Words put onto paper. Or fonts rendered on a page.
The Year 2024 in Retrospect
This year, I finally took a leap I’d been dreaming of for years: I chose myself. I left behind a life of routine, and embraced the unknown as a nomad.
Obsession with National Security
Fear is used as a motivational tool by the government over the masses.
Controlled Mass Media
Sometimes media is directly controlled by the government, but in other cases, the media is indirectly controlled by government regulation, or sympathetic media spokespeople and executives. Censorship, especially in war time, is very common.
Rampant Sexism
The governments of fascist nations tend to be almost exclusively male-dominated. Under fascist regimes, traditional gender roles are made more rigid. Opposition to abortion is high, as is homophobia and anti-gay legislation and national policy.
Supremacy of the Military
Even when there are widespread domestic problems, the military is given a disproportionate amount of government funding, and the domestic agenda is neglected. Soldiers and military service are glamorized.
Identification of Enemies/Scapegoats as a Unifying Cause
The people are rallied into a unifying patriotic frenzy over the need to eliminate a perceived common threat or foe: racial , ethnic or religious minorities; liberals; communists; socialists, terrorists, etc.
Disdain for the Recognition of Human Rights
Because of fear of enemies and the need for security, the people in fascist regimes are persuaded that human rights can be ignored in certain cases because of “need.” The people tend to look the other way or even approve of torture, summary executions, assassinations, long incarcerations of prisoners, etc.
Powerful and Continuing Nationalism
Fascist regimes tend to make constant use of patriotic mottos, slogans, symbols, songs, and other paraphernalia. Flags are seen everywhere, as are flag symbols on clothing and in public displays.
Terminal Lucidity Stories
Terminal lucidity is an uncanny phenomenon, a final gift from those who are leaving us, when clarity briefly pierces the fog of decline.