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Gianni Berardi's avatar

Thank you for the reading suggestions.

A couple of thoughts on fascism:

Umberto Eco described what he called eternal fascism. 14 characteristics define it, and we find them perfectly embodied in Putinism.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ur-Fascism

In my opinion, one characteristic is missing from the list: a ruling class closely linked to the dictator, sharing his economic interests. It is a trait common to all dictatorships, from right to left (think of Maduro and the like).

As long as the bond lasts, so does the leader.

I have read the Wall Street Journal report. The interests of Putin and his associates may begin to diverge, with all the consequences that this entails.

The point is that I doubt Putin's successor will be democratically elected and will genuinely have the best interests of the people at heart.

Les Barclays's avatar

Nice roundup! I've got to add Baltic & Blood and Power to my reading list.

Peter's avatar

Thank you - Christmas presents for the family: sorted!

I would love this to become an annual series. I do like a good annual reading list.

Peter's avatar

Even better!

Pablo's avatar

Hmm let’s see what Substack algorithm dragged to my doorstep this morning

Some creepy “strategist” from London with fetish for ethnic-Nazi states in Baltics (the real historical distinction of Estonia is that it was the first Judenfrei territory in Europe and Lithuania followed closely). Paranoia about the Russians.

urgh