Shane Burley says it better than I did @DoiDoi@hexbear.net @ExotiqueMatter@lemmygrad.ml @TreadOnMe@hexbear.net @QueerCommie@hexbear.net :

A Third Way
Over the last two decades, the contemporary left has often confused the definition of fascism, especially in discussions about the increasingly authoritarian nature of institutions propping up neoliberal capitalism. While it would be wrong to say that fascism, as a general rule, is purely anti-capitalist, it does implicitly critique capitalism as a free-market system. Capitalism may rely on the latent bigotry and social inequality in a society, but it also disrespects national boundaries, tribal allegiances, and non-economic hierarchies. What this means is that, while the left critiques capitalism for its inability to deliver broad equality, the far-right critiques it for not being explicitly racialized and unequal enough. Capitalism benefits merchants who broaden their customer base rather than privileging a specific group, and increasingly globalized trade breaks down national boundaries and benefits an international ruling class. Neoliberalism steamrolls regional diversity and cultural differences in the same way that it destroys individuality and personal expression, as a monster that goes after what makes us human.

Fascism is an attempt to answer the unfinished equation of capitalism, and, instead of challenging the inequalities manifested through this economic system, it hardens them.

This matters in terms of political (or revolutionary) strategy. We are in a three way fight between neoliberal capitalism, fascism and socialism. The question then is what can be done to pit those two against each other and not cooperate against socialism.

As capitalism leads to globalization and worse and worse material conditions, fascism is a narrative that still works to maintain concentration of economic power. It promises (and lies) to make shit great again. And while those concentrations of economic power fundamentally don’t care about ideology, many people in positions of power do find the aesthetics of fascism unappealing on an aesthetic level. That can be tapped into.

Even just from a strategic perspective: Divide and conquer.

So the critique of Jon Steward of this farce is absolutely important but just as important is the prevention of the worst case outcome. Even if you believe that fascism is the inevitable outcome sooner or later, personally I believe later is better because it allows more groups of people time to prepare.