On our latest livestream episode, Naomi Klein, Astra Taylor, and Yanis Varoufakis delved into the pressing issue of “end times fascism”, a concept central to Klein and Taylor’s latest book.
The conversation spanned from dissecting modern fascism’s components – tech billionaires, religious zealots, and ethnonationalists – to looking at solutions rooted in grassroots activism and systemic change.
An escalation, not deviation
Launching into the discussion, Klein said: “We are seeing an escalation… not just a deviation,” and explaining how Trump’s administration has expanded the Overton window, creating conditions where aggressive political ideologies can surface.
This modern fascism isn’t limited to the traditional playbook but rather it intertwines with technological authoritarianism, which Varoufakis calls technofeudalism.
He describes this as a new ruling class structured around “machines that were not created to produce anything except the power to manipulate behaviour on behalf of their tech lord owners.”
Klein added that this technofeudalism emboldens figures like Elon Musk who seem to be creating the crises and then the (self-serving) solutions to some of the world’s most pressing issues.
“They are building their arcs, causing the floods, making the world unlivable, then planning their escape.”
However, Varoufakis challenges the authenticity of these escape plans, suggesting that it’s “all for show”. “These people know they can’t truly escape the society they actively mould and manipulate,” he stated.
Astra Taylor stresses the dangers rooted in economic structures, pointing out that, “We see figures like Elon Musk rallying for far-right parties across Europe, influencing policies through their enormous wealth.” It’s not just about elected officials but the influence these billionaires exert on democratic processes.
Klein’s proposed solutions
The conversation then moved on to look at how ordinary people can counteract these forces. Klein and Taylor propose embracing the “politics of hereness” – a collective stance against the escapist mentality promoted by elites. “This isn’t just about localism,” Klein clarifies, “but about fighting for the living world, for life itself over machinic dictates.”
Taylor, drawing from her organising experience, adds: “We cannot count on the democratic establishment… it must be about building organisational relationships with transformative demands.”
She echoed this sentiment with examples of robust grassroots networks in the US that supported progressive candidates, underscoring how organised citizenry can defy expectations and enact change.
Varoufakis’ warning
A recurring theme throughout the dialogue was the peril of complacency. Varoufakis issues a stark warning: “The greatest ally of the fascists is the centre-left,” highlighting past instances where centre-left parties, through their inaction or compliance, inadvertently enabled far-right resurgences.
Despite these challenges, the panel held an underlying optimism rooted in collective action and persistent organising.
“End times fascism operates by taking collapse for granted, telling the ingroup: you will be saved… but we must dismantle this narrative,” Klein stated.
Their shared vision is one of systemic overhaul, where grassroots organising leads to tangible, democratic revitalisation.
To conclude, Klein and Taylor’s message, reinforced by Varoufakis’s insights, rallies for a unified response to fascist rhetoric and practices. “Understanding our reality is the first step to claiming agency,” Klein affirms. Their dialogue serves as a compelling call to action, urging the global community to embrace a future of solidarity over subjugation.
Watch the full discussion here
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