Intro to Dictatorship

Also known as: authoritarianism, absolute rule, totalitarianism A political system where one leader (or a small group) has total power is known as a dictatorship Dictatorships can practice either left-wing (collectivist) or right-wing (individualist) economic policies. People are told what to do and are expected to obey

Basic belief of dictatorship: A small elite is better able to govern than a majority How one becomes a dictator: - when society is in a crisis (ex: economic depression) people tend to look to a strong ruler to solve their problems for them.

Techniques of Dictatorship Censorship of media and limitations (or elimination) of free speech “Personality cult” or “Cult of the leader” – glorifying of a single leader as a great man beyond question Use of military, police or “secret police” to create a climate of fear to encourage obedience Removal of political opposition, only one party or ideology is allowed to exist, rigged elections Use of a scapegoat – blaming one group for society’s problems

Use of Propaganda Enables dictators to strengthen their hold Promotes mass solidarity (loyalty/togetherness) Prepares citizens to accept war Used particularly to indoctrinate or “teach” the youth, rewriting of textbooks in schools, creation of youth groups Helps promote the elite’s ideology throughout society Public rallies and speeches to deliver ideological messages to mass audiences