Post by @mostol@social.coop

2026-10-13 00:22 UTC

PSA: I know “&lt;prefix&gt;-fascist” gets bandied around sometimes (perhaps on account of all the fascists about in the world), but for anyone wondering—if this resonates with you: &gt; Every commit to an open-source project is another component in the great machine of technological progress. you should be aware that “Great Machine of ___ Progress” is kind of the *core principle* of the various fascism flavors. “Great Machine of Race Progress”? That’s your classic™️ fascist. “Great Machine of Technological Progress”? That’s your techno-fascist.

Replies (1)

@mostol@social.coop 2026-10-13 00:42

It’s not too late to decide you don’t want to have techno-fascist beliefs! If you found yourself nodding along to the quote and then were shocked that it’s actually fascism, you can ask yourself things like: - “Why do I think my notion of ‘progress’ is the only correct notion of ‘progress’ for all of humanity? Should people and communities maybe be afforded their own self-determination?” - ”Does my vision of ‘progress’ require some people to be sacrificed? Is it kinda strange that the people I’m willing to sacrifice are always some out-group, and never myself?“ - “Why am I so concerned with ‘progress’ anyways? Would it really be that awful if people did things that made them happy at their own pace instead of everyone having to rocket towards *my* opinion of what’s best?” I’ve found some similar thoughts kicking around in my head even up until the last couple years, but kicking them out is free! Being less fascist has been nice.

Open ##5395242