That which the Fascists hate above all else, is intelligence.

In this quote, Miguel de Unamuno asserts that intelligence is one of the most despised qualities by Fascists. He suggests that totalitarian ideologies, such as fascism, inherently fear and oppose intellectual freedom and critical thinking because these qualities challenge the rigid, authoritarian control they seek to impose. Fascism, in Unamuno’s view, thrives in an environment where people are discouraged from thinking independently or questioning authority, making intelligence a direct threat to its power.

Unamuno’s words highlight the tension between authoritarian regimes and the intellectual or cultural elites who promote independent thought. He believed that Fascists seek to suppress any form of intellectualism or dissent that could undermine their ideology, as intelligence encourages critical examination of systems of power. This view underscores the role of education and intellectual freedom in preserving democratic values and opposing oppressive regimes.

The quote reflects Unamuno’s own experiences as a Spanish intellectual during a time of rising fascism in Europe, particularly under the regime of Francisco Franco in Spain. As a thinker who valued freedom of thought and academic independence, Unamuno witnessed firsthand the ways in which authoritarian movements sought to control or stifle intellectual and cultural life. His statement is a direct critique of the threat fascism posed to the free exchange of ideas and knowledge.

Originating from Unamuno’s broader body of work as a philosopher, essayist, and writer, this quote reflects his commitment to freedom of expression and critical thinking. Throughout his career, Unamuno explored themes of human identity, freedom, and the conflict between intellectualism and oppressive political regimes. This quote captures his belief in the essential role of intelligence in resisting authoritarianism and promoting a more open, questioning society.