Which of the following describes authoritarian rule that imposes itself on most aspects of life?

Totalitarianism is characterized by its comprehensive control over many aspects of public and private life. Under totalitarian regimes, the state seeks to regulate every aspect of society, including the economy, education, art, science, and even personal beliefs and morals. This rule often involves a single, dominant political party led by a dictator, widespread surveillance, propaganda, and the suppression of dissenting voices.

The distinction of totalitarianism lies in its ambition to shape not just political structures but the very thoughts and actions of its citizens, often enforcing a singular ideology that permeates daily living. In contrast, while a dictatorship might have significant control, it does not necessarily encompass all areas of life in the same all-encompassing way that totalitarianism does. Other forms like oligarchy and republic describe different governance models where authority is either in the hands of a few or guided by elected representatives, respectively, lacking the same oppressive characteristics inherent to totalitarian systems.