Fascism's relationship with parliamentary democracy is indeed ambivalent and strategic. Fascist movements often utilize the mechanisms of democracy to achieve power, only to later dismantle these systems once in control.
Fascists may initially engage with democratic institutions, participating in elections and using political campaigns to gain popular support. This approach is tactical; they leverage the legitimacy and infrastructure of democracy to gain a foothold in power. The examples of Mussolini in Italy and Hitler in Germany highlight how fascists used democratic elections to ascend to power.
Fascism is inherently authoritarian, prioritizing a strong, centralized state led by a singular, charismatic leader. Once fascists attain power through democratic means, they typically move quickly to consolidate authority. This often involves eroding democratic institutions, sidelining the legislature, and undermining judicial independence, thus dismantling the checks and balances that define a functional democracy.
Fascist regimes view the pluralism inherent in liberal democracies as a source of weakness and division. They reject the idea of a multi-party system and often work to suppress political opposition, establish a one-party state, and control the media, thereby eliminating freedom of speech and other democratic principles. The goal is to create a homogenous political environment where dissent is not tolerated.
Fascist leaders often cultivate a cult of personality, which can simplify the process of gaining popular support. However, this approach can transform democracy into mobocracy, where decisions are driven more by populist fervor than by democratic deliberation.
As Harold J. Laski noted, fascism can emerge as a response to crises within capitalism. When capitalism struggles to meet the demands of the masses, it may turn to fascism as a means of maintaining control, often at the expense of democratic institutions. This dynamic underscores the role of fascism as a tool for preserving capitalist interests in times of social unrest.
In summary, fascism's engagement with democracy is characterized by a cynical manipulation of democratic processes to achieve undemocratic ends. This dual nature poses a significant threat to democratic societies, as it reveals how democracy can be subverted from within by those who seek to dismantle it.