Neiwert (Strawberry Days
), founder of the political blog Orcinus, links the proliferation of radical conservative ideas in the political mainstream to the looming specter of “eliminationism,” an ideology rejecting dialogue and debate “in favor of the pursuit of outright elimination of the opposing side, either through suppression, exile, and eviction, or extermination.” Eliminationism has taken many forms in American history, from the attitudes of early settlers toward the Native Americans they displaced and the rise of the Ku Klux Klan to the establishment of “Sundown Towns” that banned nonwhite residents and the internment of Japanese-Americans during WWII. In recent years, the eliminationist urge, articulated by conservative fringe groups associated with the Christian Patriot movement, has emerged in talk radio, news networks and national press outlets providing a platform for attacks on immigrants, Muslims, homosexuals and liberals. In these efforts, the author discerns a nascent American fascism, an argument that is by turns frightening and overwrought. Rich in historical and journalistic detail, the book offers a fine overview of the uglier strains in American politics. However, those looking for concrete solutions will find the author's call for ever-increasing vigilance somewhat less than fortifying. (May
)
