Hi Kent,

Thanks for your reply. Yup, I recall that rumour about Trump wanting to start a third party; it was an effective distraction on his part at the time.

The link between capitalism and fascism is well known and often stated one that was first established by Karl Polonyi I believe who said, and I'm paraphrasing, that the germ of fascism was inherent in capitalism from its very conception. This was not 'my' assertion, though I do wholeheartedly agree with it, but is one that has been a part of the philosophical debate surrounding capitalism since Marx if not before. I think your taking this critique of capitalism to encompass all production, but that's not really what it's about. Of course, we need to produce to eat, etc, but the linkage between capitalism/fascism/racism arises due to the monopolisation of capital that leads to ever increasing wealth inequality, a plutocratic/oligarchic state, a tendency towards authoritarianism, and anti-democratic means and governance.

Deregulation (of the type Trump may well partake in directly after his inauguration, if what we hear is correct) and the accumulation of wealth and power in the hands of a few capitalists is one sure way to get the fascist ball rolling even faster. And the racism that leads to the irrational fear of 'others,' to include immigrants and minorities, is a big problem as you say. America is a nation of immigrants and the economy needs them to keep ticking over. A new Muslim ban and the mass deportation of undocumented migrants could have serious detrimental effects on the American economy as you point out. Trump is supposed to be intent on writing executive orders covering all of the above on day 1. We'll know more in a few hours!

Thanks for your response and stay safe!

Peter