1. Intro to Dictatorship

2. 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

3. 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.

4. 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

5. 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