A influência dos modelos totalitários europeus: a crise constitucional do século XX

Abstract

Totalitarian regimes arise in a context of polarization between allies and enemies, characterized by a policy of terror and devoid of any human principles. The rise of the Totalitarian State occurred through a strong regime of exception, influenced by the emergence of populist and bloodthirsty leaders. In this scenario, these states managed to transform individuals into “ideal subjects,” a term used by Hannah Arendt, that is, perfect soldiers aligned with the ideology of fear. Given this, the general objective of this study is to demonstrate how the characteristics of 20th-century totalitarianism impacted the legal and social relations of European states, as well as influenced the formation of dictatorships in South America during this period. To achieve this goal, it is necessary to first understand the origins of these regimes in the ruin of the rule of law. In 1945, some countries, such as Spain under General Francisco Franco, preserved their totalitarian identity. We will therefore discuss how Francoism overcame the obstacles of this period, perpetuating itself in power as a totalitarian state. The effects of totalitarianism influenced the creation of several dictatorships in the Southern Cone, increasing repression in these states. Continuing the work, George Orwell's “1984” is analyzed, addressing the main authoritarian characteristics of the totalitarian regimes presented in the book. The results indicate the fragility of many legal systems considered democratic, which were easily usurped and corrupted by the perverse ambitions of their leaders. It is concluded that the long-term permanence of totalitarian regimes was only possible because their “sovereigns” understood the need to control and manipulate the people through aspects of reality and experience, thus giving truth and lies the same meaning. Therefore, it is necessary to understand the totalitarianism of the past to ensure the flourishing of present and future democracies. The methodology used in the research is qualitative, theoretical, and bibliographic in nature, with an emphasis on the documentary review of books, legal journals, scientific articles, and academic websites.