What is communism, socialism, and fascism?

What is communism, socialism, and fascism?

August 11, 2026 · 34 min

About this episode

The episode explores the meanings and origins of communism, socialism, and fascism in the context of upcoming midterm elections.

With the midterms coming up, these words are being uttered more and more each day. So what does it really mean when we call someone a socialist, communist, or fascist? Where did these ideologies come from, and why do we have ideologies in the first place? Today we speak with Patrick McGovern, professor of political science at Buffalo State University, and Susan Kang, professor of political science at John Jay College of Criminal Justice and host of Left On Red. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

People in this episode

Guests: Patrick McGovern, Susan Kang

Topics covered

Keywords

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Buffalo State University, John Jay College of Criminal Justice

Books & works: Left On Red

More episodes of Civics 101

Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the Civics 101 podcast page.