Summary of The Origins of Totalitarianism

The Origins of Totalitarianism is a book written by Hannah Arendt published in 1951. It examines the two major totalitarian movements of the twentieth century: Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union. The book explores the roots of totalitarianism by examining its precursor ideologies, such as imperialism and racism, as well as its relationships with anti-Semitism, class structure, and the mass psychology of the masses. The book also examines the rise of totalitarianism in the context of modern European history and the breakdown of traditional authority structures. Arendt argues that totalitarianism is a new form of government, distinct from earlier forms of tyranny and despotism. She asserts that it is a type of political system that seeks to control every aspect of citizens' lives, and that it is characterized by extreme violence, terror, and propaganda. She concludes that although totalitarianism is not inevitable, it is a real threat that must be confronted in order to preserve democracy.