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Totalitarianism: meaning, definitions and examples

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totalitarianism

 

[təʊˌtæləˈteəriənɪzəm ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

political regime

Totalitarianism is a political system where the state recognizes no limits to its authority and seeks to regulate every aspect of public and private life. It often involves the suppression of individual rights, opposition parties, and freedom of speech.

Synonyms

authoritarianism, despotism, dictatorship.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
totalitarianism

Similar to the previous entry, this term is used to describe a system where the government seeks to have total control over every aspect of life. It is often characterized by strong, centralized control, repression of dissent, and extensive surveillance.

  • The novel '1984' by George Orwell is a well-known critique of totalitarianism, depicting a society under constant surveillance
authoritarianism

This term is suitable for describing a system where a single entity or a small group holds power, with little regard for political pluralism, individual freedoms, or elections. It can include strong central control and limited political freedoms, but does not necessarily aim for total control over all aspects of life.

  • Many criticized the country's government for its authoritarianism, as dissenting voices were often silenced
dictatorship

This term is appropriate for a political situation where a single person or a small group wields absolute power, often maintained through force or manipulation. It generally implies that the power was not acquired through democratic means.

  • She lived under a dictatorship for most of her life, experiencing severe limitations on freedom of speech
despotism

Use this word when referring to a form of government where a single entity rules with absolute power, often in a cruel and oppressive way. Typically, this term has negative connotations and suggests a high degree of tyranny.

  • The despotism of the ruler led to widespread fear and unrest among the population

Examples of usage

  • Under totalitarianism, citizens are often subjected to intense surveillance and control.
  • Totalitarianism can lead to a lack of personal freedoms and a culture of fear.
  • In a totalitarian regime, dissent is often met with severe consequences.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The term originated in the early 20th century, describing governments that sought total control over society.
  • Key historical examples include Stalin’s Soviet Union and Hitler’s Nazi Germany, where every aspect of life was dictated by the state.
  • The concept contrasts with democracies, where power is shared among the people and their representatives.

Political Science

  • Totalitarian regimes often suppress political opposition by controlling media and using propaganda to influence public opinion.
  • One hallmark of these governments is the pervasive surveillance of citizens, often through secret police and informants.
  • Education systems in totalitarian states are utilized to indoctrinate individuals into the ruling ideology from a young age.

Literature

  • George Orwell’s novel '1984' is a fictional depiction of a totalitarian state, exploring themes of control, censorship, and the manipulation of truth.
  • In literature, totalitarianism often serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of government overreach and loss of individual freedoms.
  • Authors like Aldous Huxley in 'Brave New World' also explored similar themes, warning against societies where personal liberties are sacrificed for stability.

Psychology

  • Studies in psychology suggest that totalitarian regimes can foster a culture of fear, leading to compliance among citizens.
  • People living under such regimes may experience learned helplessness – feeling powerless to change their circumstances due to constant repression.
  • The concept of cognitive dissonance plays a role, as individuals may struggle to reconcile their beliefs with the oppressive reality they inhabit.

Modern Context

  • In contemporary discussions, totalitarianism is often referenced in relation to countries that limit free speech and democratic participation.
  • The rise of digital surveillance technologies raises concerns about potential new forms of totalitarian control via data collection and monitoring.
  • Dissidents in such environments frequently use artistic expression, social media, and underground networks to resist and raise awareness of their struggles.

Translations

Translations of the word "totalitarianism" in other languages:

🇵🇹 totalitarismo

🇮🇳 सर्वसत्तावाद

🇩🇪 Totalitarismus

🇮🇩 totalitarianisme

🇺🇦 тоталітаризм

🇵🇱 totalitaryzm

🇯🇵 全体主義 (ぜんたいしゅぎ)

🇫🇷 totalitarisme

🇪🇸 totalitarismo

🇹🇷 totaliterlik

🇰🇷 전체주의 (jeonchejuui)

🇸🇦 الشمولية

🇨🇿 totalitarismus

🇸🇰 totalitarizmus

🇨🇳 极权主义 (jíquán zhǔyì)

🇸🇮 totalitarizem

🇮🇸 alræðisstefna

🇰🇿 тоталитаризм

🇬🇪 ტოტალიტარიზმი

🇦🇿 totalitarizm

🇲🇽 totalitarismo

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,624, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.