Antitotalitarian: meaning, definitions and examples
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antitotalitarian
[ˌan(t)ēˌtōˌta-ləˈterēən ]
Definition
politics
Opposing or resisting totalitarianism, which is a system of government that is centralized and dictatorial and requires complete subservience to the state.
Synonyms
anti-authoritarian, anti-dictatorial, anti-oppressive.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| antitotalitarian |
Used when opposing regimes or ideologies that are characterized by absolute control or centralization, often with a single leader or party. This term is common in political science discussions.
|
| anti-authoritarian |
Applied when rejecting or resisting authority or power that restricts individual freedom. This term can be used in various settings, including politics and social relationships.
|
| anti-dictatorial |
Refers to opposition against dictatorships and leaders who possess excessive power and control, often violating human rights. Common in political discourse.
|
| anti-oppressive |
Used in broader contexts beyond politics to describe actions or attitudes that fight against any form of oppression, including social, economic, or cultural oppression.
|
Examples of usage
- Her antitotalitarian beliefs led her to speak out against the oppressive regime.
- The antitotalitarian movement gained momentum as more people became aware of the government's authoritarian practices.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The term 'totalitarian' emerged in the early 20th century, particularly during the rise of fascist regimes in Europe.
- During the Cold War, many nations adopted antitotalitarian stances to oppose authoritarian practices from both communist and fascist governments.
- Important literature like George Orwell’s '1984' highlighted the dangers of totalitarianism, inspiring movements against oppressive regimes.
Political Philosophy
- Antitotalitarianism emphasizes individual freedoms, democratic governance, and accountability in leadership.
- Philosophers like Hannah Arendt promoted the idea of active citizenry as essential for resisting totalitarian regimes.
- This philosophy argues that diversity in opinion and thought is crucial for a healthy society.
Cultural Impact
- Art and literature have often challenged totalitarianism, with works critiquing oppressive power structures across various media.
- Films like 'The Lives of Others' reflect the human struggle against totalitarian control, telling stories of resistance and personal freedom.
- In music, genres like punk rock have emerged as forms of rebellion against authoritarianism, using lyrics to voice dissent.
Psychology
- Studies suggest that living under totalitarian regimes can lead to psychological effects like fear, distrust, and helplessness in citizens.
- Resistance movements often create a sense of community and identity among those opposing oppressive governance.
- Psychologists emphasize the importance of civil liberties as vital for mental health and well-being.
Modern Relevance
- In recent years, social movements across the globe have emerged to resist authoritarianism, promoting democracy and human rights.
- The rise of technology has made it easier for both totalitarian regimes to monitor citizens and for individuals to organize resistance.
- Current events in various countries show the ongoing struggle between authoritarian tendencies and the push for freedom.
Translations
Translations of the word "antitotalitarian" in other languages:
🇵🇹 antitotalitário
🇮🇳 विरोधी अधिनायकवादी
🇩🇪 antitotalitär
🇮🇩 antitotalitarian
🇺🇦 антитоталітарний
🇵🇱 antytotalitarny
🇯🇵 反全体主義
🇫🇷 antitotalitaire
🇪🇸 antitotalitario
🇹🇷 antitotaliter
🇰🇷 반전체주의
🇸🇦 مناهض للتوتاليتارية
🇨🇿 antitotalitární
🇸🇰 antitotalitárny
🇨🇳 反极权主义
🇸🇮 antitotalitaren
🇮🇸 and-heildarhyggjumaður
🇰🇿 анти-тоталитарлық
🇬🇪 ანტიტოტალიტარული
🇦🇿 antitotalitar
🇲🇽 antitotalitario