In terms of theme, the topic of the far right in the U.S.A. best connects to the theme of identity. Far right groups consist of individuals with shared beliefs who come together to advocate for ideas that are on the “far right” of the political spectrum. After researching many far right groups ranging from the KKK to neo-Nazis, it is clear that there are a few characteristics which are similar between them. For example, many support nationalist ideas and are formed by Caucasian, Christian people.
The far right groups, much like any other group, form with the goal of protecting ideals that are relevant to their group’s characteristics, sometimes at the cost of others that are not like them. For example, the KKK supports people who are white and read the original texts from the Bible. Since Donald Trump’s presidency, many on the far right take examples of President Trump’s speech and actions as supportive of their agenda…
The KKK, a group on the far right (Source found here)
The definition of free speech is “the right to express any opinions without censorship or restraint.” When groups with opposing ideals come together and productively share their views in order to drive actions in areas where compromise can be reached, the greater good is served. However, controversy arises when individuals in a society question whether a group is exercising their right to free speech when their demonstrations also incite acts of violence. There have been a number of events in the U.S. lately that have failed to create an environment where people are ready to listen to opposing views. Unfortunately, this has resulted in an increase in anger, hatred and violence within many communities.
The number of far right groups in the US rose by 900% between 2008 and 2012. In 2012 there were 1,360 far right groups. President Obama’s presidential term began in 2009, which could have been a catalyst for the increase in these groups, as he had led a political agenda more to the left of the beliefs of these groups. It’s predicted that there will be another increase in far right groups during the Trump administration given the perceived support for these groups from the president as noted above.
It seems that there is a greater amount of social unrest in the U.S. because the country has been so divided by these left and right views without the willingness to come together for shared solutions. This could make America viewed as weak and no longer unified, so how the U.S. approaches their own agenda as well as views on international political issues matters.
Bibliography
Vox, director. Neo-Nazis Explain Why They like Donald Trump. Neo-Nazis Explain
Why They like Donald Trump, Vox, 8 Nov. 2016, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-e3T3VHmEkg.
“White Supremacy: Are US Right-Wing Groups on the Rise?” BBC News, BBC, 13
Aug. 2017, http://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-40915356. Ford, Matt. “The ‘Far Right’ in America: A Brief Taxonomy.” The Atlantic, Atlantic Media Company, 22 Jan. 2017, http://www.theatlantic.com/politics/archive/2017/01/far-right-taxonomy/509282/.
By Cailey (MYP5)
Basel Basilisk 