History of Europe

How did the authoritarianism practiced before 20th century differ from totalitarianism that arose during century?

Authoritarianism and totalitarianism are both forms of government that are characterized by the concentration of power in the hands of a single individual or group. However, there are some key differences between the two.

Authoritarianism

* Limited pluralism: Authoritarian regimes may tolerate some degree of pluralism, such as allowing multiple political parties or religious groups to exist. However, these groups are usually tightly controlled by the state and do not pose a real challenge to the regime's power.

* Limited control of the economy: Authoritarian regimes may allow some private ownership of businesses, but the state usually maintains a significant role in the economy.

* Limited control of the media: Authoritarian regimes may allow some degree of freedom of the press, but the media is usually subject to censorship and propaganda.

* Limited use of terror: Authoritarian regimes may use terror to maintain control, but it is usually not as systematic and widespread as in totalitarian regimes.

Totalitarianism

* No pluralism: Totalitarian regimes do not tolerate any pluralism. All aspects of society are controlled by the state, including the economy, the media, and religion.

* Total control of the economy: Totalitarian regimes control the entire economy, from the smallest businesses to the largest corporations.

* Total control of the media: Totalitarian regimes control the media completely. There is no freedom of the press, and all media outlets are used to promote the regime's propaganda.

* Systematic use of terror: Totalitarian regimes use terror to maintain control on a systematic and widespread basis. This includes the use of concentration camps, purges, and executions.

In conclusion, authoritarianism and totalitarianism are both forms of government that are characterized by the concentration of power in the hands of a single individual or group. However, totalitarian regimes are more extreme than authoritarian regimes in terms of their control over society and their use of terror.