Fascism is not simply a matter of history. Facists were involved in the December 2005 race riot at Cronulla beach in Sydney.  There are large fascist and far right movements in several European countries, India and other parts of the world.  Smaller fascist groups are widespread from Australia to Russia, Japan to the United States.  In many countries right wing populist and racist parties have attracted mass support.  This course examines the emergence of fascism as a distinct form of social movement since the late 19th century, the circumstances under which fascist organisations have expanded and even taken power.  It also explores struggles against fascism and the strategies and theories which guided them, in order to encourage students to develop their own systematic understanding of fascism and effective ways to prevent or combat fascist movements. In addition, the course will consider how governments have treated antifascist movements.

Short paper (15-25%), essay (55-65%) and role play written material (20-30%).

Two lectures and one tutorial a week.

Two first-year courses in Political Science, Sociology, History or Anthropology, or with the permission of the lecturer.

From Fascism to Neo-Fascism EUHY2001.