What characterizes totalitarianism?

Totalitarianism is defined by a political system in which the state recognizes no limits to its authority and seeks to regulate every aspect of public and private life. This is characterized by the presence of an absolute dictator who wields unchecked power, effectively eliminating political plurality and exercising control over various facets of society including the economy, education, and personal beliefs.

In a totalitarian regime, the government typically employs coercive measures—such as surveillance, propaganda, and repression—to maintain control and discourage dissent. This contrasts sharply with systems that feature checks and balances or prioritize individual freedoms, as such characteristics inherently limit governmental power and authority. Thus, the defining trait of totalitarianism is the concentration of power in the hands of a single leader or party, who exerts total control over the state and its citizens.