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Many years ago, I read a book written by Sinclair Lewis entitled It Can’t Happen Here. Published in 1935, Lewis describes the ascendence of a fictional American dictator. The novel could be viewed as prescient given today’s political landscape. Along with the eerie similarities to fascist sentiments of our time, the phrase, and book title, resonate repeatedly as community after community, large and small, echo the same sentiment as violence and hatred erupt within their borders.
In Lewis’ novel, Berzelious “Buzz” Winthrop rises to the presidency on a wave of dissatisfaction with economic and social conditions. He promises reform by returning to traditional values (sound familiar?). Restoring the country to stability and greatness is the core of Winthrop’s populist appeal, but hidden behind the rhetoric is a malevolent grab for absolute power and control. Touting his recognition of the “forgotten man”, Winthrop ruthlessly seeks to destroy any opposition by replacing nonpartisan government employees with loyalists and use of paramilitary thugs.
Although written with an eye toward the rise of fascism and the Nazis in Europe prior to World War II, the cyclical nature of human history seems inescapable. Over time, separated by periods of relative peace and stability, there is a constant erosion of our safety and security. In scientific lingo, this is called “entropy”. The result of societal entropy is a pattern of alienation through racial, misogynistic and/or religious prejudice. For a country founded on the belief of individual freedom and equality, this is a profound challenge. The concomitant rise of organized and solitary violent behavior is aided by confusion over the meaning of the Second Amendment to the Constitution, appeals to negative emotions and vitriolic rhetoric in many social media spaces.
The antidote to the scourge of fanaticism is to recognize its existence, even in our own communities. It can happen here. The lament of “I never thought it could happen here” are voiced following a tragic incident that seems to repeat with jaw-dropping rapidity. How often have we heard authorities reveal telltale signs of problems that could have been addressed prior to a horrific event. We can’t expect law enforcement and social services to contain this. It is up to each of us to be sensitive to signs of distress or aberrant behavior within family or friends. There is no shame in seeking professional help and counseling. The alternative may be devastating.
Can it happen here?
Yes.
Can we prevent it?
I hope so!
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