Ernst Fischer (writer)

Ernst Fischer (July 3, 1899 – March 1, 1972) was an Austrian journalist, writer, politician, and Marxist theorist. A prominent intellectual figure of the 20th century, Fischer is known for his contributions to Marxist aesthetics and cultural theory, as well as his significant role in Austrian politics, particularly during the interwar period and the early years of the Second Republic.

Born in Komotau, Bohemia (then part of Austria-Hungary, now Chomutov, Czech Republic), Fischer became involved in socialist politics early in his life. He joined the Communist Party of Austria (KPÖ) in 1919 and quickly rose through its ranks, becoming a leading ideologue and propagandist. During the interwar period, he served as a member of the National Council (Nationalrat), the lower house of the Austrian Parliament.

Following the annexation of Austria by Nazi Germany in 1938, Fischer went into exile, spending time in Moscow and Prague. He played a key role in the Austrian resistance movement from abroad, broadcasting radio messages and working to unify anti-Nazi forces.

After World War II, Fischer returned to Austria and played a significant role in the reconstruction of the country. He again served as a member of the National Council and held positions within the government. He remained a leading figure in the KPÖ but grew increasingly critical of the Soviet Union and its policies, particularly after the suppression of the Hungarian Revolution in 1956.

Fischer's works explored themes of alienation, culture, and the role of art in social change. His most influential books include "The Necessity of Art: A Marxist Approach" (Die Notwendigkeit der Kunst, 1959), which examines the social function of art and its potential to contribute to human liberation. He also wrote extensively on literature, philosophy, and history. His later works demonstrate a growing intellectual independence from orthodox Marxism.

Fischer was expelled from the KPÖ in 1969 due to his increasingly critical stance towards Soviet communism. He continued to write and lecture until his death in 1972 in Deutschfeistritz, Austria. His work continues to be studied and debated by scholars interested in Marxist thought, cultural studies, and the history of European intellectual life.