Politics Is Fandom; Fascism Is Fanfic

In today’s world, it’s impossible to ignore the influence of fandom on politics. People’s dedication to their favorite sports teams, TV shows, movies, and celebrities often mirrors their loyalty to political figures and ideologies. Just as fans will defend their favorite characters or ships at any cost, so too will supporters of politicians or political parties.

However, the line between harmless fandom and dangerous fanaticism can become blurred when it comes to fascist ideologies. Fascism, like fanfiction, takes elements of existing beliefs and twists them into something unrecognizable. Just as fanfic writers may take beloved characters and put them in morally questionable situations, fascists take legitimate political grievances and pervert them with hate and violence.

Both fandom and fascism thrive on strong emotions and a sense of community. Fandom can bring people together in celebration and support, while fascism often unites individuals through fear and a sense of superiority. The danger lies in how quickly this sense of unity can turn into a mob mentality, leading to destructive actions and oppressive regimes.

Ultimately, the power of politics lies in the hands of the people. Just as fans can hold creators accountable for their decisions, so too can citizens hold politicians accountable for their actions. By recognizing the parallels between fandom and fascism, we can work towards creating a more just and inclusive society where differences are celebrated, not demonized.

So let us treat politics as we would our favorite fandoms, with passion and dedication, but also with a critical eye and a commitment to justice. Let us reject the toxic fanfic of fascism and instead embrace a future built on empathy, understanding, and respect for all.