In two cogent and urgent essays, Riemen explores the theoretical weakness of fascism, which depends on a politics of resentment, the incitement of anger and fear, xenophobia, the need for scapegoats, and its hatred of the life of the mind. He draws on history and philosophy to explain the global resurgence of fascism, often disguised by its false promises of ushering in freedom and greatness. He compares this to European humanism with its universal values of truth, beauty, justice, and love for life-- values that are the origin and basis of a democratic civilization.