“Those who can make you believe in absurdities can make you commit atrocities” (Voltaire 1763).
Science may seem far from creativity, but that is not always true. In the past, many scientific experiments were public performances. Anatomical dissections could be witnessed in a theater by purchasing a ticket, and many physics demonstrations were conducted in public squares in front of crowds. Anyone could personally witness a scientific experiment rather than just read about it in a book.
As for the social sciences, ancient Greek dramas were initially conceived as entertainment and therapeutic exercises.
By exploring intense emotions and the strengths and weaknesses of characters, audiences learn to see these traits in themselves. The Greeks considered catharsis a vital therapeutic tool—"purification" or "cleansing," often referring to releasing emotions through their expression.
Today, we see the close relationship between Philip Zimbardo's social experiments and Marina Abramović's performances. Experiments become performances, and performances turn into scientific experiments, revealing hidden aspects of human nature unexpectedly and prompting us to reconsider what we observe.
This brings me to a performance by Belarusian artist Vladislav Bokhan, which helps us understand the depth of his creativity. While the media mocks "tin foil hats," the concept is much deeper. The performance consists of 14 separate actions, each illustrating one of the 14 characteristics of fascism as outlined in Umberto Eco's essay (point 7 below). Each action vividly demonstrates aspects of everyday Russian fascism (Rashism).
One of these actions, "Tin Foil Hats: The Helmet of the Motherland," illustrates the fascist fixation on conspiracy theories—a belief in a powerful enemy waging a deadly war against us through secret plots. Tin foil hats are presented as protection from invisible NATO satellite electromagnetic impulses. Belief in conspiracy theories serves as a strong predictive indicator: since 2011, references to conspiracy theories and sales of books on the topic in Russia have increased 6–9 times (!). Following Bokhan's work allows you to explore the realization of the other characteristics.
14 Characteristics of Fascist Thinking and Behavior (Umberto Eco):
1. The cult of tradition: Adherence to the past and rejection of modernism.
2. Rejection of rationalism: Distrust of science, promotion of irrational and intuitive beliefs.
3. The cult of action for action's sake: Prioritizing action over reflection or discussion.
4. Intolerance of dissent: Critical thinking is seen as betrayal.
5. Fear of difference: Intolerance of diversity and a drive toward uniformity.
6. Appealing to mass frustration: Leveraging the grievances of socially marginalized groups.
7. Obsession with conspiracy: Belief in a hidden enemy acting against society.
8. The enemy is both strong and weak: The opponent is portrayed as powerful yet pitiful.
9. Pacifism is treason: Readiness for war is glorified over the pursuit of peace.
10. Contempt for the weak: Social darwinism and elitism.
11. The cult of heroism: Glorification of heroism and death in the nation's name.
12. Machismo: Sexism, disdain for feminine values, and denial of women's rights.
13. Populism and anti-democracy: Disdain for democratic institutions and praise for "the will of the people."
14. Newspeak: Simplification of language and the use of propagandistic slogans for manipulation.
14 Characteristics of Fascism by Lawrence Britt (2003):
1. Powerful nationalism: Patriotism elevated to a cult, with ubiquitous use of national symbols.
2. Disregard for human rights: Justified by "security needs" or other aims.
3. Scapegoating enemies: Blaming specific groups for societal problems.
4. Military supremacy: Emphasis on the military, defense spending, and militarization.
5. Sexism: Oppression of women, homophobia, and traditional gender roles.
6. Control of mass media: Information manipulation and free speech suppression.
7. Obsession with national security: Using fear as a control tool.
8. Religion and government intertwined: Religious rhetoric legitimizes power.
9. Protection of corporate power: Privileges for big businesses, merging of business and state.
10. Suppression of labor unions: Limiting workers' rights to organize.
11. Disdain for intellectuals and art: Anti-intellectualism, censorship, and suppression of creativity.
12. Obsession with crime and punishment: Harsh laws and severe penalties.
13. Corruption and cronyism: Using power to enrich the elite.
14. Fraudulent elections: Manipulating results and suppressing opposition.