There is a common argument that Hitler was a socialist and that a common leftist tactic is to accuse you of something they are well known for, saying that Trump, for example, cannot be a fascist.
Of course, there are similarities between all authoritarian regimes. But while extreme right-wing and extreme left-wing ideologies have been associated with significant suffering and damage in the 20th century, they have different ideological foundations, methods, and goals.
Beginning with ideological foundations, extreme right-wing ideologies often emphasise nationalism, authoritarianism, traditionalism, and social hierarchy. They tend to advocate for a strong central government and strict social order and often promote ethnocentric or xenophobic views.
On the other hand, extreme left-wing ideologies typically prioritise egalitarianism, social justice, and collective ownership of resources. They often advocate for the abolition of social hierarchies, redistribution of wealth, and extensive state intervention in the economy.
With regard to methods and goals, extreme right-wing parties often seek to preserve or restore traditional social structures and power dynamics through authoritarian means. They may advocate for excluding or suppressing certain groups deemed threatening to the established order.
On the other hand, extreme left-wing parties typically aim to challenge existing power structures and promote societal transformation through revolutionary or reformist means. They may advocate for the overthrow of capitalist systems and the establishment of socialist or communist societies.
Regarding their attitudes toward individual freedoms, extreme right-wing ideologies may prioritise order and security over individual freedoms, often justifying authoritarian measures for national security or cultural preservation.
Extreme left-wing ideologies may prioritise collective welfare over individual freedoms, sometimes restricting personal liberties in pursuing social equality and justice.
They also differ in economic policies. Extreme right-wing parties often support free-market capitalism, privatisation, and deregulation, viewing government intervention in the economy as undesirable.
Extreme left-wing parties typically advocate for state control or ownership of key industries, redistribution of wealth, and extensive welfare programs to ensure economic equality.
As far as social issues are concerned, extreme right-wing ideologies may oppose progressive social policies, such as LGBTQ+ rights, feminism, and multiculturalism, viewing them as threats to traditional values and societal stability.
Extreme left-wing ideologies often champion progressive social causes, advocating for gender equality, minority rights, and multiculturalism as essential components of a just society.
So, from the above, it is clear that Hitler was not a socialist and in fact, Adolf Hitler’s Nazi regime in Germany targeted socialists and communists as part of their efforts to consolidate power and eliminate political opposition. Even before coming to power, Hitler and the Nazi Party viewed socialists and communists as significant threats to their goals. The Nazi Party’s ideology was vehemently anti-communist and anti-socialist, portraying these ideologies as enemies of the German nation and the Aryan race.