Which of the following is a characteristic of a totalitarian government?(1 point)
Responses
checks on power
checks on power
adherence to the rule of law
adherence to the rule of law
free and fair elections
free and fair elections
lack of civil liberties
lack of civil liberties
The characteristic of a totalitarian government among the options provided is lack of civil liberties.
The characteristic of a totalitarian government among the given options is the "lack of civil liberties."
To determine the correct characteristic, we need to understand the concept of a totalitarian government. A totalitarian government is an authoritarian regime where the ruling party exercises total control over every aspect of public and private life, leaving little or no room for individual freedoms and civil liberties.
Analyzing the given options:
1. "Checks on power" refers to a system of balancing power, such as a separation of powers or checks and balances, which is typically absent in a totalitarian government.
2. "Adherence to the rule of law" implies that the government operates and is bound by a set of established laws. However, in a totalitarian regime, the ruling party often manipulates and overrides the law to suit its interests.
3. "Free and fair elections" suggest that citizens have the right to choose their leaders through a fair electoral process. In a totalitarian government, elections are typically controlled or manipulated to secure the ruling party's power, therefore lacking fairness and freedom.
4. "Lack of civil liberties" aligns with the concept of a totalitarian government. Civil liberties, such as freedom of speech, press, association, and expression, are severely restricted or non-existent in such a regime.
Considering these explanations, the correct characteristic of a totalitarian government among the given options is "lack of civil liberties".