Fascism is looked down upon by most people throughout the world. I personally believe fascism to be an evil approach of control and domination of people. In the anthology titled "An Introduction to the Politics and Philosophy of Jose Ortega Y Gasset" by Andrew Dobson, Dobson writes an article about Ortega being accused of being a Spanish Fascist. That is a very serious accusation despite the fact that Ortega had written several anti-fascist essays. Dobson writes a few quotes from Ortega that can be accused of Fascist-like remarks, but that is not what Ortega tries to get across. .
I believe a proper definition of Fascism needs to be stated to show what exactly Fascism is. Fascism is a system of government marked by centralization of authority under a dictator, stringent socioeconomic controls, suppression of the opposition through terror and censorship, and typically a policy of belligerent nationalism and racism. One of Ortega's statements that led to the accusation was "In a country torn apart by dissentions, force is justified in bringing people together if their prejudices work against "historical necessity." Against them, the only effective thing is the power of force, grandiose historical surgery." (p.99) I believe this statement definitely supports a Fascist theme to a degree. On the other hand, Dobson shows an entire letter that was written by Ortega expressing his disgust towards Benito Mussolini and his Fascist ways of government. It is a complete contradiction. Ortega is not attempting to be Fascist at all. When he makes comments as shown above, he intends it to rally people together as a country. .
I agree with Dobson's interpretation of Ortega's work. Ortega is simply trying to restore a little morale with his fellow countrymen during World War II. A few years ago, a football coach of mine once said similar things about using force and being brutal, in turn, his remarks inspired my team to go out and win the football game.
