SS1 First Term Government Lesson Note – Basic Concepts: Fascism and Totalitarianism

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WEEK 10.

TOPIC: BASIC CONCEPTS

CONTENT

1. Fascism: Definition and characteristics.
2. Totalitarianism: Definition and characteristics.

Sub-Topic1: FASCISM-MEANING OF FASCISM.

Fascism can be defined as a political ideology and a system of government headed by a privileged elite dictator who exercises total control and promotes nationalism where socialism is discouraged. Fascism was a type of dictatorial government established in Italy under Benito Mussolini between 1922 and 1933. It was a form of authoritarianism. Under fascism, people’s lives are completely controlled by the state.

CHARACTERISTICS OF FASCISM

1. All powers in the state are vested in the leader who exercises total control over the entire people.
2. All aspect of life of the citizens such as education, religion, size of a family, etc.are controlled by the government.
3. Workers are not allowed to go on strike and there is no freedom of the press.
4. Fascism believes in war as a viable means of settling dispute between nations and for the attainment of international peace.
5. Fascism does not believe in the equality of man but believes in class structure in the society.
6. It is against democratic principles e.g. rule of law, mass political participation, constitutionalism, etc.
7. Under the system, the state embarks on imperialistic expansion and domination of other countries politically and economically e.g. Germany between 1911-1945.
8. There is lack of respect for international laws and conventions.
9. The economy is highly centralised since the means of production and distribution are controlled by the government.

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