National Socialism and Modern Politics

The Intersection of Political Tactics: Left-Wing Strategies and National Socialism

By Mike Scheibe

In the tumultuous landscape of political discourse, comparisons between ideologies often ignite heated debates. One such comparison that has drawn attention is the perceived resemblance between left-wing tactics and the strategies employed by Joseph Goebbels, the infamous Nazi propagandist. While it is essential to approach this topic with nuance and historical context, examining the parallels can shed light on the complexities of political maneuvering.

1. The Fascist Left: Myth or Reality?

In recent years, conservative commentators and political figures have labeled extreme left-wing politicians and radical agitators as the “Fascist Left.” Skeptics scoff at this phrase, questioning how authoritarian and nationalistic socialists could exhibit leftist tendencies. However, some historians argue otherwise. They identify German National Socialists (Nazis) and Italian Fascists as close relatives to the revolutionary socialist Left. Why? Because these National Socialist leaders often proclaimed themselves on the “Left” side of the political spectrum, advocating for a slew of “revolutionary socialist policies.”

2. Goebbels: A Revolutionary Red

Joseph Goebbels, Hitler’s Minister of Propaganda, epitomized the more radical side of National Socialism. His beliefs aligned with the socialist Left, emphasizing:

Worker-Based Class Struggle: Goebbels and the Strasser brothers promoted socialist ideals, wealth redistribution, and social justice.

Anti-Capitalism: They despised the capitalist right wing and advocated for the breakup of large estates.

Alliance with Stalin’s Soviet Union: National Socialist leaders shared ideological similarities with Lenin and Stalin.

Goebbels explicitly acknowledged his support for the “German left” and his disdain for the “right-wing” business class. In 1931, he wrote, “According to the idea of the NSDAP [Nazi party], we are the German left. Nothing is more hateful to us than the right-wing national ownership block.”

Goebbels’ propaganda tactics certainly do not only resemble many of the modern left, they often are exactly the same. This quote rings particularly true with the current Presidential Candidate and former President, Donald Trump; “Propaganda must facilitate the displacement of aggression by specifying the targets for hatred.” Trump and any citizen who supports him are most definitely the targets of hatred by the Democratic Party.

Ever notice how mass media floods the country with the same points over and over to the point that it’s virtually impossible to escape them?

Whether things are true or not, they are repeated until people take them as being factual. This also was a concentrated effort by Dr. Goebbels who wrote;

“ The most brilliant propagandist technique will yield no success unless one fundamental principle is borne in mind constantly - it must confine itself to a few points and repeat them over and over.”

To be clear, the modern left is not made up of Nazi’s, but it’s hard to ignore the resemblances in how they often

operate politically.

As we navigate these complexities, we must recognize that political tactics can transcend traditional boundaries. Just as Goebbels revealed his revolutionary red colors, our modern political landscape requires careful consideration. Let us all strive for civility in political discourse and policies that protect all while respecting individual rights – a delicate balance that transcends labels and ideologies.