Final answer:
Totalitarian rulers keep their power by controlling information, using secret police, and fostering a cult of personality. These methods create an environment where dissent is suppressed and individual rights are curtailed.
Step-by-step explanation:
Totalitarian rulers maintain their power by various mechanisms that involve strict control over societal aspects and suppression of freedom. Three primary ways are:
- Controlling information: This includes censorship of the media, controlling all outlets of information, and propagating official state propaganda to shape public perception and prevent dissent.
- Using secret police: Secret police are employed to create a climate of fear and enforce the government's policies. They often operate outside of the law and are used to target, intimidate, and eliminate political opposition and any threats to the ruler's power.
- Cult of personality: Totalitarian leaders often create a glorified image of themselves, thus commanding loyalty, adoration, and unquestioned obedience from the citizens.
These methods are in stark contrast to democratic principles where dissent, opposition, and diversity are encouraged and civil liberties are protected.