Totalitarianism vs. Authoritarianism

Definitions

Authoritarianism

• Marked by submission to authority.
• Opposite of individualism and democracy.
• Political power condensed into one authority figure or a small group.
• Leaders usually assume power and are not elected by the people.
• Power is unrestrained and leaders answer to no one.

Totalitarianism

• Power holders see no limitation to their authority.
• Seek to control every aspect of public and private life.

Comparison

• Totalitarianism is a form of Authoritarianism, but more extreme.
• Authoritarianism: Some social and economic institutions remain outside government control. Focus on full political power.
• Totalitarianism: Seeks power over everything, including ideology and personal beliefs.

Execution of Power

• Authoritarian Ruler: Focuses on individual power.
• Totalitarian Ruler: Often a charismatic ideologist claiming to act in the people's or state's best interest.

Example

• Totalitarianism: Adolf Hitler sought control over political rule, personal beliefs, and even race.

Summary

• Authoritarianism = Unrestrained political power.
• Totalitarianism = Unrestrained political power + control over all aspects of life.