Unit Introduction:
We will use the two resources below to introduce you to the course.
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A. What is a 'Totalitarian State'? |
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One of the many new depressing words that had to be invented in the twentieth century was 'totalitarianism'. One of the key themes of this unit is to try and measure the extent to which this concept was achieved by the new kind of dictatorial leaders who emerged in the twentieth century. In order to make such a judgment we need to answer this question:
"What exactly do we mean by totalitarianism?'
Through the exploration of this question we can set criteria against which we can judge the changes introduced by Hitler, Castro and Mao later in the course. Use the Note Taking Frame above to record your learning.
"What exactly do we mean by totalitarianism?'
Through the exploration of this question we can set criteria against which we can judge the changes introduced by Hitler, Castro and Mao later in the course. Use the Note Taking Frame above to record your learning.
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1. Post- it Panic: Write a 'first thought' definition of totalitarianism on your post it an stick on the board. Give examples if you have time.
2. As a class, watch the short clip on Stalin opposite. Do you want to add anything to your first thoughts? |
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3. Look through the cartoons in the slide show below. Through discussion, write up a list of the key features of 'totalitarianism'. |
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4. Ask an Expert. Look at Source B in the document opposite by eminent scholars Friedrich and Brzezinski. Add brief notes and clarity, using bullet points and headings only. Complete Columns A & B |
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B. Critical Thinking: Apply your understanding of totalitarianism...
You will be randomly allocated one of the two mini-investigations below in order to develop your understanding of the concept of totalitarianism. As you watch/read your goal is to complete Column C on your grid.
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A. GEORGE ORWELL'S 1984?
In 1948 George Orwell wrote one of the most influential books of the twentieth century; '1984'. In it, he described a fictional future dominated by 'Big Brother'... click on the image below... 
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B. NORTH KOREA TODAY?
Watch the documentary below - what evidence is there of totalitariansim |
C. Extend your thinking...
In Section D of your work sheet, answer one or more of the questions below:
a) Do you see any of these themes/aspects in South Korea/your home country? Your life at NLCS?
b) We have identified 6 'features' that characterise a totalitarian state. Do you think that a government could ever completely achieve all of them? Explain.
c) Which of the characteristics that we have identified do you think is the most important/useful in identifying a Totalitarian state? Justify your ideas.
As a class, read and discuss the following news story in relation to what you have just learnt.
a) Do you see any of these themes/aspects in South Korea/your home country? Your life at NLCS?
b) We have identified 6 'features' that characterise a totalitarian state. Do you think that a government could ever completely achieve all of them? Explain.
c) Which of the characteristics that we have identified do you think is the most important/useful in identifying a Totalitarian state? Justify your ideas.
As a class, read and discuss the following news story in relation to what you have just learnt.