4.1.2 Characteristics of Totalitarianism

Fascism and Communism are two ideological systems that result in dictatorship. There are many types of dictatorship or political control around the world. A totalitarian political system is one in which the government has almost total control over the lives of its citizens. The government does not obtain its power or legitimacy from the support of the people, and it stays in power by state-sanctioned violence, propaganda, and indoctrination.

Read "The Nature of Totalitarian Regimes", on pages 167 to 168 in your text Perspectives on Ideology.

As you read about totalitarianism, take notes on the following:
  • Is it possible for totalitarian regimes to value any of the principles of liberalism?
  • What values and beliefs lie behind totalitarian rule?
  • Do you think these ideas are justified? Explain.

Are there any advantages to a dictatorship? Consider the following possibilities, thinking about the values behind both collectivism and individualism.

    Possible Advantages

    Possible Disadvantages
    • work towards the collective interest
    • a sense of collective responsibility & purpose
    • political stability
    • use resources efficiently to meet national goals
    • rapid swift action to address needs
    • loss of individual rights and freedoms
    • loss of private property
    • inefficiency and bureaucracy
    • corruption
    • apathy and cynicism
    • struggles for political power
    • elitism


    Watch the 1946 black and white film entitled Despotism produced by the Encyclopedia Britannica.
    • How well does the film reflect your understanding of totalitarianism?
    • Do you think this film is propaganda in any way, or does it just state the facts?
     

     

    "Despotism", 1946 Courtesy of the Internet Archive/Prelinger Archives. Public Domain.

     

     

     



    Many countries have an authoritarian government (dictatorship)? To what extent do they:
    • have extensive local, regional, and national organization?
    • use secret police using terror as a weapon?
    • establish professional, cultural, and youth groups to support the leader, often with forced participation ?
    • indoctrinate through education?
    • control the media, including use of propaganda and censorship?
    • redirect popular discontent (use scapegoats)?