Is totalitarianism institutionalised patriotism?
A totalitarian government shows a number of characteristics and patriotism is one of them. The reason why patriotism spreads is because of government branches in charge of propaganda having complete control of the media and actively censoring ideas that threaten the regime. Patriotism is encouraged by a totalitarian government because it is a method of control and patriotic people are more willing to die for their country and leader. The other things that were evident in regimes like Hitler and Stalin’s were major spending on the military, autonomy of the state, secret police and of course censorship and propaganda.
It probably is to a degree because in a totalitarian regime every aspect of life is controlled by the state, including patriotism. Although that patriotism might only be displayed by the people because they fear suppression if they speak against the state view. True patriotism on the other hand is a genuine loyalty to your country. It’s a bit of a cleft stick really.
