Eva von Redecker Exposes How Modern Fascism Thrives on Exclusion

Philosopher Eva von Redecker's latest book, This Urge for Brutality, examines the shifting face of modern fascism. Published in March by S. Fischer Verlag, the work explores how today's authoritarian movements rely on possession and exclusion to fuel violence. Her analysis comes as far-right ideologies spread globally, threatening democratic values in new and subtle ways.

Von Redecker argues that contemporary fascism differs sharply from its historical forms. Unlike the overt brutality of Nazism, today's version is more elusive—embedded in everyday attitudes rather than centralised power. She identifies a radicalised obsession with ownership and exclusion as its driving force, hardening societies and normalising aggression.

The philosopher, known for previous works like Freedom to Stay and Revolution for Life, specialises in critical theory, feminism, and the intersections of capitalism and authoritarianism. Her latest book avoids pinpointing specific events since the 2010s as causes. Instead, it traces how a culture of entitlement and rejection reshapes politics across Europe and beyond.

At the upcoming Leipzig Book Fair, von Redecker will discuss these themes in a session moderated by Ulrike Winkelmann, editor-in-chief of this publication. The event reflects growing concern over the erosion of democratic norms as far-right groups gain ground.

This Urge for Brutality arrives amid a surge in authoritarian politics worldwide. Von Redecker's focus on possession and exclusion offers a framework for understanding how violence becomes institutionalised. The book's release coincides with urgent debates about democracy's future at a time of rising extremism.