What does the term 'totalitarian' imply about a government's scope of control?

The term 'totalitarian' refers to a form of government that exerts an extensive and pervasive control over multiple facets of its citizens' lives. This encompasses not only the political sphere but also social, economic, and cultural dimensions. In totalitarian regimes, the government often seeks to dominate all aspects of life, including personal beliefs, values, and even everyday activities.

This level of control is established through various means, such as propaganda, censorship, and state surveillance, ensuring that dissent is minimal and conformity is enforced. Unlike systems where laws strictly limit government power or where individual rights are prioritized, totalitarian governments prioritize their authority and often suppress freedoms to maintain their control.

Understanding this definition clarifies why the answer aligns with the characteristics of totalitarian governance compared to other governance forms that emphasize limited control or promote individual freedoms.