Definition

Totalitarianism

the attempt to control every aspect of society, from the political system to the economy, religion, education, and media to ensure no rival groups/parties could exist to challenge the regime and regime leader

  • one(s) in power see no limitation to their authority
  • wants power over EVERYTHING
  • begin to intrude into ideology of everyone under their rule
    • everyone has to be the same, with the goal to work for/worship the government
    • e.g. North Korea, “Asia for the Asians” Japanese imperalism

Six key features (Carl Friedrich)

  1. An official ideology (fixed way of thinking)
  2. Single mass party
  3. Police control based on terror
  4. Total control over media
  5. Total control over arms
  6. Central control over economy

Examples of totalitarian states: