The global political landscape is increasingly marked by the rise of neofascist movements, which are gaining significant traction across various countries. These movements often cloak themselves in the rhetoric of nationalism, populism, or anti-immigration, presenting themselves as a response to societal crises. Neofascism, a more contemporary and nuanced form of fascism, requires an understanding that goes beyond traditional political analysis. To fully grasp its emergence, one must examine it through a dialectical lens that incorporates elements of historical materialism, quantum mechanics, and social theory. This article delves into the emergence of neofascism, applying the concepts from Quantum Dialectics to explore the dynamics of cohesion and decohesion within social systems, the potential for revolutionary change, and the underlying contradictions shaping the current global political order.
Neofascism, as a political phenomenon, arises when traditional fascist ideologies are reinterpreted and reshaped to fit contemporary socio-political realities. While it retains the core tenets of classical fascism, such as ultranationalism, authoritarianism, anti-liberalism, militarism, and xenophobia, neofascism adapts these principles to the dynamics of the modern world. One of the most notable shifts is the use of advanced technology and media manipulation to propagate its ideals and mobilize support. Social media platforms, for instance, allow neofascist groups to reach vast audiences, spreading their messages quickly and often outside the purview of traditional media regulation. By using targeted propaganda, emotional appeals, and fabricated narratives, these movements are able to manipulate public perception and create an atmosphere of fear and division. Additionally, neofascism has embraced a more sophisticated political discourse, which combines populist rhetoric with anti-establishment sentiments. Leaders and movements present themselves as champions of “the people,” claiming to fight against the “corrupt elite” and promising to restore national pride, sovereignty, and order. This modernized form of fascism not only appeals to the economic insecurities and cultural anxieties of the population but also exploits the fragmentation of contemporary societies in the face of globalization, economic inequality, and immigration. In essence, neofascism’s success lies in its ability to adapt and thrive in the contemporary digital age, leveraging both technology and discourse to build a new, albeit dangerous, political agenda.
The key features of neofascism include a potent combination of nationalism and populism, which are central to its appeal. Nationalism, in the neofascist context, is often used as a tool to create an “us versus them” narrative, with an emphasis on the sanctity and superiority of the nation-state. This nationalism is framed as a defense of traditional cultural values, national identity, and historical heritage against perceived external threats. These threats can take various forms, such as immigrants, foreign nations, or ideologies that challenge the established national order, including socialism, liberal democracy, or globalism. Neofascist leaders and movements often invoke a sense of national crisis, suggesting that the very essence of the nation is under siege. Populism plays a complementary role in this dynamic by positioning the “common people” as the rightful custodians of the nation’s future, as opposed to the “corrupt elites” who are often accused of selling out the country to foreign interests, multinational corporations, or political ideologies perceived as weakening national sovereignty. This populist rhetoric is designed to galvanize broad segments of society—particularly those feeling disenfranchised or left behind by globalization—by creating a narrative of victimhood and resistance against powerful, external forces. By appealing to national pride and the fears of societal change, neofascism aims to unite the people under the banner of a hyper-nationalist ideology that excludes others—whether they be immigrants, minorities, or political opponents—while promising to restore the nation to its perceived former greatness. The appeal to both nationalism and populism thus forms the bedrock of neofascism’s strategy for gaining power and shaping political discourse in the contemporary world.
A central feature of neofascism is its strong anti-elite sentiment, which involves a vehement rejection of the established political elite. Neofascist movements frame these elites as corrupt, self-serving, and disconnected from the struggles and needs of the ordinary people. The elites are often portrayed as part of a globalist network, which is accused of undermining national sovereignty and prioritizing their own interests over the well-being of the nation. This narrative taps into widespread disillusionment with traditional political institutions, which many people perceive as ineffective or complicit in the ongoing social and economic crises. Neofascist leaders capitalize on this discontent by presenting themselves as the authentic voice of the people, promising to dismantle the existing political structures and restore national pride, sovereignty, and control over domestic affairs. They often claim that the elites have betrayed the nation by engaging in globalist policies that promote immigration, economic inequality, and the erosion of traditional values. By framing themselves as anti-establishment figures, these leaders promise a return to a more nationalist, self-reliant society, where the needs of the people are placed above the interests of the elite. This populist rhetoric is aimed at rallying support from disenfranchised voters who feel marginalized by the political establishment, offering them a vision of reclaiming power from the hands of those who are seen as responsible for the nation’s decline.
A central feature of neofascism is its strong anti-elite sentiment, which involves a vehement rejection of the established political elite. Neofascist movements frame these elites as corrupt, self-serving, and disconnected from the struggles and needs of the ordinary people. The elites are often portrayed as part of a globalist network, which is accused of undermining national sovereignty and prioritizing their own interests over the well-being of the nation. This narrative taps into widespread disillusionment with traditional political institutions, which many people perceive as ineffective or complicit in the ongoing social and economic crises. Neofascist leaders capitalize on this discontent by presenting themselves as the authentic voice of the people, promising to dismantle the existing political structures and restore national pride, sovereignty, and control over domestic affairs. They often claim that the elites have betrayed the nation by engaging in globalist policies that promote immigration, economic inequality, and the erosion of traditional values. By framing themselves as anti-establishment figures, these leaders promise a return to a more nationalist, self-reliant society, where the needs of the people are placed above the interests of the elite. This populist rhetoric is aimed at rallying support from disenfranchised voters who feel marginalized by the political establishment, offering them a vision of reclaiming power from the hands of those who are seen as responsible for the nation’s decline.
Violence and militarism are deeply embedded within the fabric of neofascism, with these movements often resorting to the use of paramilitary groups and the glorification of violence as essential tools to achieve their political objectives. Neofascist leaders frequently promote a vision of society in which strength, power, and militarism are paramount, framing violence not as an anomaly but as a legitimate and necessary means of securing political power and maintaining order. Paramilitary groups, often formed outside of the traditional state apparatus, play a crucial role in enforcing this vision. These groups engage in acts of intimidation, physical assault, and even terror against political opponents, minorities, and marginalized communities, while simultaneously creating a climate of fear and submission within society. The glorification of violence is also evident in neofascist rhetoric, which often idealizes past periods of national strength achieved through military conquest or authoritarian rule. Violence, in this context, is framed as an act of patriotism, a defense of national pride, and a direct challenge to perceived enemies, both internal and external. This militaristic approach appeals to those who feel powerless in the face of societal change, providing them with a sense of purpose and empowerment through violent action. The normalization of violence within the neofascist agenda not only serves to suppress dissent but also fosters a culture of aggression and division, wherein political differences are resolved through force rather than dialogue. By promoting militarism and violence, neofascism seeks to reshape the political landscape into one where coercion and domination are seen as legitimate and justified in the pursuit of nationalistic and authoritarian goals.
Examples of neofascist movements can be seen in the rise of right-wing populist governments and the growth of far-right parties across various regions, including Hungary, Poland, Brazil, and India, as well as in parts of Europe and the United States. In Hungary, Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has consolidated power by promoting an ultranationalist agenda that emphasizes “illiberal democracy,” restricts civil liberties, curtails press freedom, and vilifies immigrants, particularly from Muslim-majority countries. Orbán’s government has used populist rhetoric to frame itself as a protector of Hungarian culture against external threats, aligning itself with other neofascist elements in the European Union. Similarly, in Poland, the Law and Justice Party (PiS), led by Jarosław Kaczyński, has implemented authoritarian measures under the guise of defending Polish sovereignty and family values, often attacking judicial independence, stoking fears of immigrants, and undermining democratic norms. In Brazil, the election of Jair Bolsonaro brought a new wave of right-wing populism, marked by aggressive rhetoric against minorities, a glorification of military dictatorship, and a dismissal of environmental concerns, especially in relation to the Amazon rainforest. India’s rise to neofascism is typified by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), led by Narendra Modi, which has been associated with the promotion of Hindu nationalism, marginalization of religious minorities, particularly Muslims, and the implementation of policies that undermine secularism and democracy in the country. In addition to these national cases, far-right parties have gained considerable influence across Europe, from Italy’s Lega and France’s National Rally to the Alternative for Germany (AfD). In the United States, the election of Donald Trump in 2016 catalyzed a surge in far-right movements, with a growing number of white nationalist and anti-immigrant factions mobilizing around issues of national identity and sovereignty. These examples underscore the increasing prominence of neofascist ideologies, which blend nationalism, authoritarianism, and populism to reshape the political landscape in many parts of the world.
To fully comprehend neofascism within a dialectical framework, it is essential to understand the key concepts of quantum dialectics, as proposed in the work of Chandran KC. Quantum dialectics uniquely combines the principles of quantum mechanics with dialectical materialism, offering a novel perspective on the dynamics of both natural and social systems. In this framework, the concepts of cohesion and decohesion serve as fundamental forces that shape the structure and evolution of systems. Cohesion refers to the forces that bind the elements of a system together, creating stability and unity within the system. In social terms, cohesion can manifest as shared ideologies, cultural practices, or political institutions that unite a population under a common cause. Conversely, decohesion represents the disruptive forces that threaten to fragment or disintegrate the system, often emerging from contradictions within the system itself. These contradictions can arise from social, economic, or political tensions, such as inequality, class struggle, or the clash of competing ideologies. In the case of neofascism, the forces of cohesion might be represented by the nationalistic and populist ideologies that seek to unify the people around a common identity or enemy, while decohesion emerges through the deepening contradictions of modern capitalism, social inequalities, and political alienation. Quantum dialectics thus provides a framework for understanding how these opposing forces interact and shape the rise of neofascism, as well as the broader transformations occurring within society as it responds to both internal and external challenges.
Cohesion refers to the forces that bind together the elements of a system, ensuring its stability and the maintenance of a specific structure. In the context of social systems, cohesion is typically represented by the ideologies, institutions, and practices that work to unite a group of people around a common purpose or identity. These cohesive forces create a sense of shared belonging, solidarity, and mutual support within the group. For instance, nationalism often acts as a powerful cohesive force, bringing together individuals within a nation-state by emphasizing shared cultural, historical, and linguistic ties. Similarly, religious identity can serve as a form of cohesion, uniting individuals under common spiritual beliefs and practices. Institutions, such as governments, political parties, and social organizations, also play a critical role in fostering cohesion by promoting common values, norms, and policies that ensure social order and continuity. These cohesive forces work to maintain social harmony and collective identity, especially in times of uncertainty or crisis, by offering individuals a sense of purpose and a framework for understanding their role within society. However, while cohesion can provide stability, it can also lead to exclusion, as those who do not conform to the dominant ideology or identity may be marginalized or oppressed. Thus, cohesion is not merely a force for unity but can also reinforce power structures, highlighting the potential contradictions within social systems.
Decoherence, in contrast to cohesion, refers to the forces that disrupt, destabilize, or fragment a system, leading to its potential disintegration or transformation. In social systems, decoherence manifests as the emergence of contradictions and tensions that challenge the existing order and power structures. These disruptive forces can take various forms, such as class struggle, where the interests of the working class come into conflict with those of the ruling elite, leading to social unrest and demands for change. The struggles between the proletariat and bourgeoisie intensify when the wealth and power disparities reach critical levels, pushing society to a breaking point. Social movements are another form of decoherence, where collective action arises from marginalized or disenfranchised groups that push against established societal norms, policies, or injustices, demanding greater equality, rights, or recognition. These movements, whether based on race, gender, or environmental issues, challenge systemic oppression and inequality, often disrupting the status quo and forcing social change. Economic crises, such as recessions or financial collapses, often reveal the inherent contradictions within capitalist systems, exacerbating inequality, unemployment, and social instability, further driving discontent and fueling demands for systemic reform or radical shifts. These crises, which are rooted in the contradictions of the capitalist system, serve to expose the fragility of the existing economic order. Additionally, technological disruptions, such as advancements in automation, artificial intelligence, or communication technologies, can unsettle traditional social, economic, and political structures by altering labor markets, power dynamics, and modes of communication. These changes often lead to job displacement, income inequality, and shifts in how power is exercised, which may challenge long-standing hierarchies and structures. Together, these disruptive forces compel society to confront its contradictions and adapt, either through reform or radical transformation. However, the process of decoherence generates significant instability, as existing systems struggle to maintain control in the face of mounting pressures. In this sense, decoherence acts as a critical force in the dynamic evolution of social systems, often serving as the catalyst for revolutionary change, the reconfiguration of power relations, and the eventual restructuring of society’s economic, political, and social orders.
In a society characterized by deep contradictions, such as inequality, exploitation, and social division, the dynamic interplay between cohesion and decoherence generates the conditions for revolutionary change. These contradictions are not fixed or unchanging; rather, they are dynamic and constantly evolving as old contradictions are either resolved or exacerbated. For instance, economic inequality and class exploitation may lead to social unrest and the emergence of movements seeking systemic change, yet these very struggles also give rise to new contradictions, such as those between different social classes, ideologies, or even within the movements themselves. Quantum dialectics suggests that these contradictions act as the driving forces of historical development, pushing societies toward transformation. As certain contradictions are temporarily resolved through reforms or shifts in the balance of power, new contradictions emerge in response to changing conditions—whether they arise from economic crises, technological advancements, or shifting cultural values. These new contradictions may exacerbate existing tensions or introduce entirely new struggles, intensifying social divisions and fueling demands for further change. In this way, the process of societal evolution is not linear or predictable, but rather unfolds through a continuous cycle of conflict, resolution, and the creation of new contradictions that perpetuate the momentum of change. Ultimately, it is this constant flux, the unresolved and evolving contradictions between cohesion and decoherence, that lays the groundwork for revolutionary movements and the reorganization of social, political, and economic structures.
Neofascism can be understood as a response to social decoherence in various societies, particularly in the context of global economic inequality, political instability, migration crises, and the erosion of traditional social structures. As these forces destabilize the existing order, neofascist movements exploit the resulting instability to offer a sense of unity, purpose, and identity to their followers. By invoking a nostalgic vision of the past, where the nation or the “people” were perceived to be unified and strong, these movements aim to restore cohesion in the face of societal fragmentation. Neofascists capitalize on fears of cultural, economic, and political decline, framing their cause as a solution to the perceived chaos brought about by globalization, immigration, and the failures of liberal democracy. Through populist rhetoric and appeals to national pride, they promise to re-establish order and protect the nation from external and internal threats, thereby positioning themselves as defenders of a cohesive national identity. This reactionary force seeks to reverse the effects of social decoherence by creating a new, authoritarian form of cohesion that excludes those perceived as “outsiders” while consolidating power under a singular, often dictatorial leadership.
At the global level, the rise of neoliberalism has significantly exacerbated inequality, creating a situation in which large segments of the population feel alienated, marginalized, and powerless. The concentration of wealth and power in the hands of a few, coupled with the erosion of workers’ rights, environmental degradation, and the global financial crisis, has eroded trust in traditional political systems. These economic and social disparities have deepened the contradictions between the wealthy elite and the working masses, fostering widespread disillusionment. In turn, the rise of populist and anti-establishment sentiments reflects growing frustration with a political system perceived as failing to address these crises. As liberal democracy struggles to provide effective solutions to the pressing issues of inequality and social unrest, these unresolved contradictions have created a fertile ground for neofascism to take root. Neofascist movements, with their promises of strong leadership and nationalism, tap into the discontent of those who feel neglected by the establishment, offering them a sense of purpose and a vision of societal unity based on exclusionary and authoritarian principles.
Quantum dialectics suggests that when a system becomes too rigid or unable to address its internal contradictions, it enters a state of instability—what can be described as a decohering state—where new forms of social organization or ideologies begin to emerge. In such a state, the existing structures are unable to maintain coherence, and society faces fragmentation or transformation. Neofascist movements arise as a reactionary force in this context, seeking to reverse the process of social decoherence. They attempt to restore cohesion by reasserting older forms of social unity, but through authoritarian, violent, and exclusionary means. By invoking nationalist and populist ideologies, neofascism seeks to rebuild a sense of national identity and solidarity, often at the expense of marginalized groups. These movements offer a vision of stability and order, but they do so by undermining democratic principles and fostering division, ultimately attempting to re-establish an authoritarian structure in response to the social fragmentation caused by modern crises.
In the age of globalization, the increased flow of capital, goods, and people has fundamentally altered social relations, giving rise to new contradictions. The mass migration of refugees and economic migrants, often from regions plagued by conflict and poverty, has led to a perception of threat in more affluent nations. Neofascist movements seize on these fears of “otherness,” using xenophobic rhetoric to create a sense of unity among the native population. By portraying immigrants and outsiders as dangers to national identity, security, and cultural values, these movements seek to foster cohesion within the native population, framing them as victims of external forces and rallying them against the perceived threat posed by migrants. This divisive strategy aims to consolidate power by creating a stark divide between “us” and “them,” using fear to fuel support for exclusionary policies and authoritarian governance.
However, this sense of cohesion promoted by neofascism is artificial and exclusionary, relying on the creation of an “enemy” to unite against. This enemy is often framed as migrants, minorities, or political adversaries, who are scapegoated for the challenges facing society. The quantum dialectic here reveals that the neofascist agenda acts as a false resolution to the deeper contradictions of globalization. Rather than addressing the root causes of inequality, economic instability, and social fragmentation, it seeks to consolidate power through division and exclusion. By focusing on external or marginalized groups as the source of societal problems, neofascism deflects attention away from the systemic issues at the heart of social and economic crises, offering a superficial sense of unity that ultimately deepens societal divisions and reinforces existing power structures.
In quantum dialectics, force is understood as the mechanism that shapes the interactions within a system, driving its dynamics and transformations. In the context of neofascism, force manifests in two primary ways: the application of political force to maintain control over the social system and the physical force used by paramilitary groups to intimidate, attack, or suppress opposition. Political force is exerted through authoritarian measures, such as legal restrictions, the centralization of power, and the suppression of dissent, all aimed at consolidating control and ensuring the stability of the neofascist agenda. Meanwhile, physical force is often deployed by paramilitary groups or state-backed militias, who engage in violent actions against political opponents, minorities, and any groups deemed threats to the movement. This combination of political and physical force serves to create an atmosphere of fear, silencing opposition and reinforcing the power of the neofascist leadership, while further entrenching division and exclusion within society.
The application of force is central to the consolidation of neofascist regimes, as it enables leaders to suppress dissent, centralize authority, and reinforce nationalistic sentiment. Leaders like Hungary’s Viktor Orbán, Brazil’s Jair Bolsonaro, and India’s Narendra Modi have utilized state power to silence opposition, curtail civil liberties, and consolidate their control over the political system. These leaders often position themselves as the sole solution to the crises facing their nations, framing their authoritarian measures as necessary for national stability and prosperity. By employing force—whether through legal restrictions, the militarization of law enforcement, or the targeting of political opponents—they secure their grip on power and deepen their control over the state’s institutions. In doing so, they not only bolster their personal authority but also foster a sense of national unity by presenting themselves as protectors of the nation against internal and external threats, further entrenching their dominance in the political landscape.
At its core, quantum dialectics emphasizes that contradictions are not merely negative forces but can also act as productive catalysts for change. In the case of neofascism, the contradictions inherent within the global capitalist system—such as the disparity between the elite and the masses, the tension between globalization and nationalism, and the conflict between democratic institutions and authoritarian populism—create a space where revolutionary change becomes possible. These contradictions highlight the deep-seated flaws in the existing system, revealing the limitations of both the neoliberal economic order and the liberal democratic structures that support it. Neofascism, as a reactionary force, emerges in response to these unresolved contradictions, but it also exposes the fragility of the system it seeks to uphold. Rather than offering genuine solutions to the root causes of inequality, instability, and social fragmentation, neofascism attempts to channel these contradictions in a direction that reinforces authoritarian power. However, quantum dialectics suggests that such contradictions, if properly addressed, can lead to transformative change, potentially sparking a shift toward a more just and equitable social order.
The growing disenchantment with the status quo, fueled by the rise of neofascism, has the potential to spark a counter-revolutionary movement aimed at addressing the root causes of social decay, such as inequality, exploitation, and the failure of democratic systems to meet the needs of the people. As neofascism exploits the existing contradictions in society to consolidate power, these very contradictions may also lay the groundwork for a broader, transformative movement. Quantum dialectics offers hope that, despite the challenges, these contradictions can lead to the emergence of a new social order—one founded on the principles of justice, equality, and solidarity, rather than division and authoritarianism. By confronting and resolving the underlying issues of social fragmentation, inequality, and political alienation, such a movement has the potential to create a more equitable and just society, where the forces of cohesion are rooted in unity and collective well-being, not in exclusion or oppression.
The rise of neofascism in various countries can be understood as a direct response to the contradictions and decoherence within the global social system, where economic inequality, political instability, and cultural fragmentation have created fertile ground for authoritarian movements to gain traction. Quantum dialectics offers a valuable framework for analyzing these developments, highlighting how neofascism seeks to restore cohesion by imposing authoritarian control, often through exclusionary and violent measures, while concealing the deeper contradictions inherent in capitalist society. These contradictions—between the elite and the masses, globalization and nationalism, democracy and authoritarianism—serve as the driving forces of social change, and addressing them is critical to moving beyond the divisive narratives perpetuated by neofascist movements. The challenge, therefore, lies not just in confronting neofascism but in tackling the root causes of inequality, exploitation, and social alienation in a way that fosters genuine unity based on principles of justice, equality, and solidarity. As neofascism continues to spread, the urgency for a transformative movement has never been greater. Such a movement must challenge the structures of power and privilege that perpetuate division and work toward creating a more inclusive, equitable social order where the forces of cohesion are rooted in collective well-being, not in the exclusion and oppression of others. The path to a just and fair society requires addressing these contradictions head-on and using them as a catalyst for revolutionary change.
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