Fascism Checklist

Interactive Evaluation Tool
Use this checklist to evaluate whether an action, policy, or rhetoric aligns with Umberto Eco's 14 properties of Ur-Fascism. This is an educational tool, not a definitive judgment.
Important Disclaimer: This checklist is a simplified educational tool. Real historical analysis requires deep scholarly examination. The presence of some characteristics doesn't automatically mean something is fascist, and the absence of these traits doesn't mean something is good. Use this as a starting point for critical thinking, not as a final verdict.
What are you evaluating?
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Analysis Summary
Properties identified: 0 of 14None Detected

No fascist characteristics detected based on Eco's framework. However, absence of these traits doesn't mean an action is good or bad—it simply means it doesn't align with the specific characteristics of fascism.

Eco's 14 Properties of Ur-Fascism
Check each property that applies to what you're evaluating. Expand items for more detail.

Appeals to ancient wisdom or a mythologized past

Anti-intellectualism and distrust of rational thought

Action is beautiful in itself, thinking is weakness

Critical thinking is seen as betrayal

Exploitation of fear of outsiders and diversity

Exploiting economic anxiety and feelings of humiliation

Conspiracy theories about powerful enemies

Contradictory portrayal of opponents

Life is permanent warfare, peace is weakness

Social Darwinism and disdain for compassion

Cult of heroism and death

Emphasis on masculine dominance and traditional gender roles

Leader claims to speak for 'the people' without democratic mandate

Impoverished vocabulary and oversimplified messaging

Based on Umberto Eco's essay "Ur-Fascism" (1995). For deeper understanding, read the original essay and consult scholarly sources.