What characterizes fascism as a political movement?

Fascism is fundamentally characterized by its authoritarian nature, which centralizes power in the hands of a single leader or dictator. This concentration of authority is a hallmark of fascist regimes, which often suppress dissent and eliminate political opposition to maintain control. The leader typically embodies the state and promotes nationalistic sentiments, prioritizing the interests of the nation above individual rights or democratic processes.

In contrast to democratic principles, which emphasize individual freedoms and shared governance, fascism rejects these ideas in favor of a strong, central authority. Furthermore, the notion of multiple leaders sharing power contradicts the centralized structure of fascist governance, where decision-making and authority rest with one person. Finally, while community participation might be present in some political systems, fascism tends to minimize or completely disregard genuine participation in favor of a top-down approach that dictates how citizens should behave, often using propaganda to rally support for the regime.