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The Constitution of Totalitarianism

In: Totalitarianism, Terrorism and Supreme Values

Author

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  • Peter Bernholz

    (University of Basel)

Abstract

Can totalitarianism have a constitution or is this not a contradiction of terms? For does totalitarianism not substitute the rule of terror for the rule of law? (Arendt 1951). In this chapter, we are going to show that totalitarianism constitutes a rational system (as already discussed by Brzezinski 1956) which binds population and leaders by stable long-lasting rules, which form an unwritten or written constitution. It is exactly this constitutional trait of totalitarianism which is one of the main differences distinguishing it from dictatorship or tyranny, since the latter are characterized by the uncontrolled discretionary power of the tyrant.

Suggested Citation

  • Peter Bernholz, 2017. "The Constitution of Totalitarianism," Studies in Public Choice, in: Totalitarianism, Terrorism and Supreme Values, chapter 0, pages 51-62, Springer.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:stpchp:978-3-319-56907-9_7
    DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-56907-9_7
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