Despotism (1946). A short film about the rise of totalitarianism
This short film – dated 1946 – shows in less than ten minutes how “totalitarianism” can grow very quickly and emphasises that the form of government (republic or democracy) does not protect against its rise.
He also lists some warning signs :
Private property is concentrated in the hands of a small minority.
Certain people or groups are denied respect because of their political beliefs or opinions.
The press is controlled by a small minority and is totally beholden to corporate advertising interests. Education becomes indoctrination, discouraging independent thought and punishing people who ask the wrong “questions”.
Taxes fall disproportionately on working people.
