Accelerationism: the Ideology of Darkness
Exposing a Dangerously Radicalized Belief System
Jeff Fields
October 12, 2023
Accelerationism is a controversial and often fringe ideological movement that encompasses various beliefs. The extremist ideology appropriates elements of Hindu mythology, Norse mythology, Christianity, and radicalizes these elements through a desire for accelerated societal change.
History
The Accelerationist Movement emerged in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. It is characterized by a desire to accelerate the collapse of the current political and social order, believing that this will lead to a more desirable future. Accelerationists view the existing system as fundamentally corrupt and unsustainable.
Relationship to Mythology and Religion
Accelerationists often draw on elements of Hindu mythology (notably the concept of Kali Yuga, the age of darkness and chaos), Norse mythology (with references to Ragnarök, the end of the world), and occasionally Christian eschatology (concepts of Armageddon and divine judgment) to frame their narratives and beliefs about societal collapse.
Goals
Accelerationists seek to bring about the collapse of modern society through various means, such as political violence, terrorism, or mass disruption. They believe that a post-collapse world will allow them to rebuild society according to their extremist ideologies. Recreating society in their distorted and desired image, by any means necessary, is their ultimate goal.
Comparison to White Nationalist Movements
Accelerationists share similarities with white nationalist movements in terms of extremist ideologies and a desire to disrupt the current social order. Prominent groups identify as Nazis.
However, not all accelerationists are necessarily white supremacists, and there can be variations in their specific goals and ideologies. It can be said that accelerationists differ from White supremacists in that they see no path to radical change through voting or other political means.
Influential Literature
Accelerationists are known to draw inspiration from extremist literature such as "Siege" by James Mason, "The Turner Diaries" by William Luther Pierce, and the "Protocols of the Elders of Zion”. These texts provide a narrative framework for their extreme beliefs
Prominent Figures and Groups
Prominent figures and groups within the Accelerationist Movement have included individuals like Anders Behring Breivik, who carried out the 2011 Norway attacks, Timothy McVeigh, Dylan Roof, the Atomwaffen Division, The Base, the neo-Nai Satanist group Order of Nine Angels (O9A) and various militias.
This movement is highly decentralized, and its leaders and groups can change over time.
Belief in Conspiracy Theories
Accelerationists often subscribe to various conspiracy theories, including notions of global elites manipulating society and governments to maintain control. They adhere to antisemitic beliefs and conspiracy theories steeped in age-old and disproven antisemitic tropes. These conspiracy theories influence their worldview and motivations.
Common conspiracy theories that influence the belief system of accelerationists include the "New World Order", secret cabals controlling world governments, and the idea that governments stage false flag attacks to maintain control.
Concept of "Sainthood"
Accelerationists subscribe to the concept of "sainthood". Sainthood glorifies individuals who commit acts of violence or terrorism in pursuit of their extremist goals. Becoming a "saint" typically involves carrying out a high-profile act of violence that garners attention and inspires others. The Christchurch Mosque shooter, Brenton Tarrant”, was granted sainthood for his violent act of hate. Anders Breivik previously mentioned, was also granted sainthood and was looked up to by Tarrant.
The Iconography of "Saints"
"Saints" within the Accelerationist Movement are often depicted in propaganda materials and online forums. They are portrayed as martyrs and warriors, with images that glorify their actions and sacrifice. These iconographies serve to inspire and incite other potential extremists.
Online forums and social media platforms are filled with memes and symbols glorifying saints. These can include images, quotes, and slogans that celebrate their violent actions.
Acts of Violence
Accelerationist individuals and groups have been responsible for several acts of violence, including targeted shootings, mass shootings, bombings, and acts of terrorism. These acts, in their minds, serve to instigate chaos and accelerate societal collapse.
Dangers to Minorities and Democracy
The Accelerationist Movement poses a significant danger to minority communities, as they are often targeted by extremist violence. Additionally, the movement's call for societal collapse can undermine democratic institutions and stability.
Dangers to Law Enforcement
Law enforcement personnel are at risk when dealing with accelerationist individuals or groups, as they may engage in armed confrontations or target law enforcement officers as representatives of the state they seek to disrupt.
Concerns for Law Enforcement and Intelligence Personnel
Law enforcement faces challenges in monitoring and countering accelerationist activities due to the decentralized nature of the movement, the spread of extremist ideologies online, and the difficulty of identifying potential threats before they act.
In summary, the Accelerationist Movement is a radical and decentralized ideology with roots in various mythologies and conspiracy theories. Its goal is to accelerate societal collapse to create a new order, it poses significant dangers to minorities, democracy, and law enforcement. Intelligence agencies and law enforcement agencies closely monitor and address this threat to maintain public safety and national security.