“Fascism, the more it considers and observes the future and the development of humanity, quite apart from political considerations of the moment, believes neither in the possibility nor the utility of perpetual peace.”
- July 29, 1883 – April 28, 1945
- Italian
- Politician, Journalist, Dictator, Prime Minister of Italy, Founder of Fascism
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Quote
“Fascism, the more it considers and observes the future and the development of humanity, quite apart from political considerations of the moment, believes neither in the possibility nor the utility of perpetual peace.”
Explanation
This quote articulates one of fascism’s core philosophical rejections of pacifism and idealistic visions of global harmony. Mussolini asserts that perpetual peace is both impossible and undesirable, reflecting fascism’s belief that conflict is inherent to human progress. By separating this stance from “political considerations of the moment,” Mussolini suggests it is a fundamental, long-term worldview, not a temporary reaction to specific conditions.
The historical context of this quote lies in fascism’s emergence after World War I, a time when many in Europe hoped for lasting peace. Mussolini, however, viewed peace as a myth propagated by liberal democracies and socialist internationalists, which, in his view, led to decay, weakness, and stagnation. Fascism promoted the idea that struggle, war, and sacrifice were vital to the health of nations. This belief justified aggressive militarism, expansionism, and the suppression of dissent in the name of national destiny.
In modern terms, this quote serves as a stark contrast to liberal internationalism and post-war institutions like the United Nations, which were founded on the idea of maintaining peace through cooperation. Mussolini’s rejection of perpetual peace reveals the dangerous logic of ideologies that glorify conflict, as they often lead to authoritarianism, imperialism, and endless cycles of violence. Understanding this mindset is crucial for recognizing how some regimes justify war as not merely inevitable, but desirable and necessary for human advancement.
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