Futurism vs. Fascism — What's the Difference?

Advocated for cultural rejuvenation to break free from tradition.

Promotes a centralized autocratic government headed by a dictatorial leader.

Characterized by its enthusiasm for the future and innovation.

Militarism and imperialism are commonly advocated positions.

Originated in Italy but influenced global art scenes.

Utilizes propaganda to maintain power and manipulate public perception.

An artistic movement emphasizing speed, mechanization, and technological prowess.

A political ideology that stresses nationalistic uniformity and authoritarian governance.

Often associated with radical political ideas.

Opposes liberalism, Marxism, and anarchism.

Futurism (Italian: Futurismo) was an artistic and social movement that originated in Italy in the early 20th century which later also developed in Russia. It emphasized dynamism, speed, technology, youth, violence, and objects such as the car, the airplane, and the industrial city.

Fascism () is a form of far-right, authoritarian ultranationalism characterized by dictatorial power, forcible suppression of opposition, and strong regimentation of society and of the economy, which came to prominence in early 20th-century Europe. The first fascist movements emerged in Italy during World War I, before spreading to other European countries.

A belief that the meaning of life and one's personal fulfillment lie in the future and not in the present or past.

An authoritarian and nationalistic right-wing system of government and social organization.

An artistic movement originating in Italy around 1910 whose aim was to express the energetic, dynamic, and violent quality of contemporary life, especially as embodied in the motion and force of modern machinery.

A system of government marked by centralization of authority under a dictator, a capitalist economy subject to stringent governmental controls, violent suppression of the opposition, and typically a policy of belligerent nationalism and racism.

(Christianity) A belief that biblical prophecies, especially those contained in the book of Revelation, will be literally fulfilled at some point in the future.

A political philosophy or movement based on or advocating such a system of government.

(art) An early 20th century avant-garde art movement focused on speed, the mechanical, and the modern, which took a deeply antagonistic attitude to traditional artistic conventions.

Oppressive, dictatorial control.

The study and prediction of possible futures.

Any right-wing, authoritarian, nationalist ideology characterized by centralized, totalitarian governance, strong regimentation of the economy and society, and repression of criticism or opposition.

(Judaism) The Jewish expectation of the messiah in the future rather than recognizing him in the presence of Christ.

Any system of strong autocracy or oligarchy usually to the extent of bending and breaking the law, race-baiting, and/or violence against largely unarmed populations.

(Christianity) Eschatological interpretations associating some Biblical prophecies with future events yet to be fulfilled, including the Second Coming.

Any extreme reliance on or enforcement of rules and regulations.

A movement or phase of post-impressionism (which see, below).

A political theory advocating an authoritarian hierarchical government; - opposed to democracy and liberalism.

A point of view that finds meaning or fulfillment in the future rather than in the past or present. The philosophy of a futurist.

An authoritarian system of government under absolute control of a single dictator, allowing no political opposition, forcibly suppressing dissent, and rigidly controlling most industrial and economic activities. Such regimes usually try to achieve popularity by a strongly nationalistic appeal, often mixed with racism.

An artistic movement in Italy around 1910 that tried to express the energy and values of the machine age

Specifically, the Fascist movement led by Benito Mussolini in Italy from 1922 to 1943.

The position that the meaning of life should be sought in the future

Broadly, a tendency toward or support of a strongly authoritarian or dictatorial control of government or other organizations; - often used pejoratively in this sense.

A political theory advocating an authoritarian hierarchical government (as opposed to democracy or liberalism)

Futurism's decline was due in part to its association with the discredited and defeated fascist regimes post-World War II.

While primarily artistic, futurism did have political dimensions, particularly in its advocacy for cultural and societal changes.

Futurism is an artistic movement focused on modernity and innovation, while fascism is a political ideology that emphasizes authoritarian control and nationalism.

Futurism's glorification of modernity and disdain for tradition resonated with fascist ideals, influencing the cultural aspects of fascist regimes.

Yes, futurism had influence beyond Italy, affecting art and culture in various parts of Europe and Russia.

Fascism is widely criticized for its authoritarian practices, suppression of political freedom, and aggressive militarism leading to widespread suffering.

Not all futurists supported fascism; some distanced themselves as the political implications and realities of fascism became clear.

Fascist economic policies typically involved state intervention in the economy to promote national interests and militarization.

Fascist governments used art as a propaganda tool to promote their nationalist and militaristic ideologies.

While futurism is still appreciated for its artistic contributions, fascism is universally condemned for its destructive impact on societies.