Federico Finchelstein: Fascism at the Gates

TPL and Toronto Metropolitan University present historian and author Federico Finchelstein in conversation with Sanjay Ruparelia at the Toronto Reference Library's Appel Salon.

As Professor of History at the New School for Social Research and a world-renowned expert on fascism, populism, and dictatorship, Federico Finchelstein brings nearly three decades of research to bear on one of the most urgent questions of our time: how do democracies die from within?

As authoritarian movements gain strength across continents, democratic institutions face unprecedented assault. Wannabe fascists weaponize misinformation, dehumanize opponents and minorities, normalize political violence, and test the limits of legal restraint, all while claiming democratic legitimacy. The line between populist authoritarianism and full fascism grows thinner as these leaders push toward the final pillar: the total suppression of free elections and democratic opposition.

What distinguishes today's wannabe fascists from classic dictatorships? How can citizens, media, and public institutions resist this drift toward facism? And what lessons from the rise of twentieth-century fascism must we apply to protect democracy in the twenty-first

Drawing on comparative analysis spanning Europe, Latin America, Asia, and North America, Finchelstein offers crucial insights into understanding, and stopping, the greatest threat facing democratic societies worldwide.

Question and answer session and book signing to follow. Books available for purchase.

About this Event's Guests:

Federico Finchelstein

Sanjay Ruparelia

Read More:

The Wannabe Fascists: A Guide to Understanding the Greatest Threat to Democracy

Fascist Mythologies: The History and Politics of Unreason in Borges, Freud, and Schmitt

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This event is part of our On Civil Society series, where we host local and international authors, activists and academics in conversation about the most critical topics of our time. Generously supported by the McConnell Foundation and also by Chris M. Reid.

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About the series:

On the Frontlines of Democracy is a public lecture series to analyze the trajectory of democracy in the twenty-first century.

In every region, the prospects of democracy face serious challenges, old and new. Can we protect constitutional rights and renew collective self-rule in an era of popular mistrust, severe partisanship and resurgent nationalism? Can they reduce inequalities of power, wealth and status, defend deep diversity and confront climate change in the new digital age? Can we develop innovative strategies to revitalize civic engagement, empower public institutions and resist autocratic threats? And what can we offer, learn and do to promote the prospects of democracy in our increasingly post-western global order?

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PLAN YOUR VISIT:

Location: Bram and Bluma Appel Salon, Toronto Reference Library (789 Yonge Street), 2nd floor

Time: Doors open 6:00 pm, Event starts 7 pm.

Tickets: Free registration required.

Ticket policy: Tickets guaranteed until 6:50 pm, after which rush line admission begins. Seating first come, first served.

TPL is committed to accessibility. If you are Deaf or have a disability and would like to request accommodation for this event, please contact [email protected] or 416-393-7099 at least three weeks prior to the event.

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