The idea was first put forth in the 1991 book
The Nature of Fascism Griffin argues that fascism uses the "palingenetic myth" to attract large masses of voters who have lost their faith in traditional politics and religion by promising them a brighter future under fascist rule. That promise is not made exclusively by fascists: other political ideologies also incorporate some palingenetic aspects in their party programs since politicians almost always promise to improve the situation. More
radical movements often want to overthrow the old order, which has become
decadent and alien to the
common man. That powerful and energetic demolition of the old ways may require some form of
revolution or battle, which is, however, represented as glorious and necessary. Such movements thus compare the (recent) past with the future, which is presented as a rebirth of society after a period of decay and misery. The palingenetic myth can also possibly stand for a return to a
golden age in the country's history so that the past can be a guidebook to a better tomorrow, with an associated regime that superficially resembles a
reactionary one. Fascism distinguishes itself by being the only ideology that focuses strongly on the revolution in its myth or, as Griffin puts it: Through all of that, there would be one great leader who would battle the representatives of the old system with
grassroots support. In the fascist utopia, one
mass of people will supposedly appear who have only one goal: to create their new future. Such a fascist movement would ideally have
infinite faith in its mythical
hero who would stand for everything the movement believes in. According to this utopian ideology, under the guidance of their leader the country would then rise like a
phoenix from the ashes of corruption and decadence. ==Contemporary examples==