Evola vs. Mussolini

Attribute	Evola	Mussolini
Ideology	Traditionalism, anti-modernism, spiritualism	Fascism, nationalism, corporatism
Role in Government	Did not hold any official government position	Prime Minister of Italy
Relationship with Hitler	Had disagreements with Hitler and Nazi ideology	Allied with Hitler and Nazi Germany during World War II
Views on Race	Believed in the superiority of the Aryan race	Promoted Italian racial superiority but did not adhere to strict racial theories
Views on Religion	Advocated for a return to traditional spiritual values	Initially secular, later formed a close relationship with the Catholic Church

Background

Julius Evola and Benito Mussolini were two prominent figures in Italian history during the early to mid-20th century. Evola was a philosopher, esotericist, and political thinker, while Mussolini was the fascist dictator of Italy from 1922 to 1943. Both men played significant roles in shaping the political and cultural landscape of Italy during their respective times.

Political Ideologies

Evola and Mussolini held different political ideologies, despite both being associated with fascism. Evola was a proponent of a traditionalist and anti-modernist worldview, advocating for a return to a hierarchical society based on spiritual values. Mussolini, on the other hand, was more focused on nationalism, militarism, and the centralization of power in the state. While both men believed in the importance of a strong government, their visions for Italy's future differed in terms of cultural and social values.

Relationship with Fascism

Evola and Mussolini both had ties to fascism, but their relationships with the ideology were complex. Evola was critical of Mussolini's version of fascism, which he saw as too materialistic and lacking in spiritual depth. Evola believed in a more esoteric and metaphysical form of fascism, which he outlined in his writings on traditionalism. Mussolini, on the other hand, embraced a more pragmatic and nationalist form of fascism, focusing on the unity and strength of the Italian state.

Views on Race and Nationalism

Both Evola and Mussolini held views on race and nationalism that were controversial and often aligned with fascist ideology. Evola believed in the superiority of certain races and advocated for a hierarchical society based on racial purity. Mussolini, while also promoting nationalist and racist policies, was more focused on the idea of Italian supremacy and the expansion of the Italian empire. Both men used ideas of race and nationalism to justify their political agendas, although their specific beliefs and approaches differed.

Impact on Italian Society

Evola and Mussolini had a significant impact on Italian society during their respective times, although their legacies have been viewed in different lights. Mussolini's rule as dictator led to the centralization of power, the suppression of political dissent, and the promotion of fascist ideology throughout Italy. Evola, while not holding political office, influenced a generation of thinkers and activists with his writings on traditionalism and esotericism. Both men left a lasting mark on Italian culture and politics, shaping the country's trajectory in the 20th century.

Legacy and Influence

Evola and Mussolini's legacies have been subject to debate and interpretation in the years since their deaths. Evola's ideas have been embraced by some far-right and traditionalist groups, who see him as a visionary thinker and philosopher. Mussolini, on the other hand, is often remembered for his authoritarian rule and alliance with Nazi Germany during World War II. While both men continue to have influence in certain circles, their reputations have been tarnished by their association with fascist ideology and the atrocities committed during their time in power.