Exploring the spaces of völkisch ecofascism online

In response to the recent resurgence in ‘ecofascist’ ideologies and violence, this dissertation attempts to understand new forms of ecofascism proliferating online, through a case study of the ‘Skadi’ online community. In order to provide the necessary context to understand the forms of ecofascism we see today, the first section of the dissertation aims to unpack various terms involved in this discussion, as well as historicising the overlap between fascist politics and environmental thought. I then introduce the theoretical and methodological resources which will be used to analyse this convergence, exploring how ideas from post- foundational theory (PFT) can be mobilised to analyse the ideological workings of ecofascism. This sets the groundwork for my discussion of the contrasting representations of ‘nature’ on the Skadi community, and the ideological work these perform in creating a sense of ontological and epistemological ‘foundation’ for the forum’s activities and identities. I claim that a ‘post-foundational ecosocialism’ is the only reliable way in which an understanding of this process can be integrated within a progressive environmental politics. Following my conclusions here, I dedicate space to reflect upon the methodological and ethical challenges of conducting such research both at a distance and during a pandemic, which I take to be an important aspect of any research design in the age of COVID-19. I conclude by summarising my findings, and pointing towards further research possibilities in this area.