Define and compare authoritarianism and totalitarianism systems of government

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Authoritarianism is a political system controlled by rulers who deny popular

participation in government. Today, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait are examples of

authoritarian absolute monarchies. Dictatorships are authoritarian systems in which

power is gained and held by a single individual. Pure dictatorships are rare? all rulers

need the support of the military and the backing of business elites to maintain their

position. Military juntas result when military officers seize power from the government.

Today, authoritarian regimes exist in Cuba and in the People's Republic of China.

Totalitarianism is a political system in which the state seeks to regulate all aspects of

people's public and private lives. Totalitarianism relies on modern technology to monitor

and control people? mass propaganda and electronic surveillance are widely used to

influence people's thinking and control their actions. To keep people from rebelling,

totalitarian governments enforce conformity? people are denied the right to assemble

for political purposes, access to information is strictly controlled, and secret police

enforce compliance, creating an environment of constant fear and suspicion.