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No. 18: The Political and Social Doctrine of Fascism, by Benito Mussolini, IS.

Title: The Political and Social Doctrine of Fascism
Author: Benito Mussolini
Translation: Authorized translation by Jane Soames
Third Impression, Published by: Leonard and Virginia Woolf at the Hogarth Press, 52 Tavistock Square, London W.C.
First Published: October 1933
Second Impression: October 1933
Third Impression: December 1933
Printed in Great Britain by Garden City Press Ltd., Letchworth, Herts.

This document is an authorized translation of an article contributed by Mussolini in 1932 to the fourteenth volume of Enciclopedia Italiana.
It is considered the only statement by Mussolini outlining the philosophical basis of Fascism.

Mussolini recalls organizing a meeting in March 1919 for members of the Interventionist Party.
His prior experience was mainly with Socialism from 1903-1914.
He had no doctrinal stance in mind when he founded the Fascist Revolutionary Party in January 1915.
Mussolini characterizes his doctrine as a doctrine of action rather than theory, stating:
- No universally accepted Socialist theory existed post 1905, after the revisionist movement in Germany began under Bernstein.
- While revolutionary ideas emerged, they remained somewhat theoretical in Italy, but contributed to the Bolshevik movement in Russia.
Post-World War I, Mussolini claims Socialism had deteriorated to a mere sentiment of hatred and a movement for reprisals against the political elite who supported the war.
The Popolo d'Italia was framed as “the newspaper of ex-service men and producers”, indicating a focus on economic leadership.

Fascism arose from the necessity for practical action and the spirit of reformation, and was defined not as a mere political party but as a living movement, often opposing other parties.
Mussolini refers to early meetings where principles rather than organized doctrines were expressed (aphorisms, anticipations).

Action vs. Theory: Stressing action over comprehensive doctrine, emphasizing practical engagement in governance and leadership in the industry rather than mere political rhetoric.
Collective Leadership: Advocating for a model of leadership where the working class understands the challenges of governance.
National Pride: Asserting the right to leadership from those who have contributed to national efforts like participation in the War.

Mussolini critiques democracy, claiming it gives the illusion of sovereignty while true power lies with unseen forces.
He argues Fascism promotes a structured state as opposed to the chaos of democratic processes characterized by a lack of true authority.
In rejecting Socialist ideology, he contends that history cannot merely be explained by class conflict or materialistic interpretations.
Asserted that economic conditions alone cannot define social or historical movements, and that the actions of individuals play a crucial role in shaping history:
- Holiness and Heroism: Fascism values actions driven by ethical and moral motivations, not merely economic incentives.
Rejecting the Class-Struggle Narrative: Dismissing class warfare as The primary agent of societal transformation.

Rejection of Liberalism is positioned not as a retrogressive act but as a necessary evolution from past ideologies.
Emphasizes that Liberalism failed as a doctrine post-1848 and that the twentieth century should build upon authority and collectivism.
Critiques democracy as an ineffective measure of governance and posits that a true Fascist State serves greater ethical and historical purposes than any democratic arrangement.
- Mussolini notes that the Fascist state transcends political forms and seeks to create a cohesive, centralized authority that reflects the spirit and mission of the nation.

Fascism perceives the state as an absolute entity, superior to individuals or groups, shaping their existence in relation to its governance:
- Planned to create a strong, organic state supported by all citizens.
- Describes the Fascist state as a “spiritual and moral fact” rather than merely a political organization.
Discusses the role of the state in educating citizens and binding them together by cultivating civic responsibility and unity through justice and service.

While Fascism does not profess specific theological beliefs, it acknowledges the importance of religion (especially Catholicism) as a manifestation of human spirit, thus extending respect and protection to religious practices without attempting to subsume them under state control.

Mussolini explains that for Fascism, the concept of Empire embodies vitality and strength, reflecting the nation’s resurgence after a period of decline and external control:
- Highlights discipline, coordination, and a sense of duty as foundational to Imperial ambitions.
- Aligns the Fascist ethos with national unity and historical destiny, and positions military and moral might as integral to national success.
Claims that this ideology not only emphasizes present strength but also honors historical legacies and the sacrifices of predecessors.