What does totalitarianism entail in terms of government control?

Totalitarianism involves a form of government that seeks to regulate every aspect of public and private life. This means that not only the political sphere is controlled, but also social, cultural, economic, and even personal aspects of citizens' lives are systematically managed by the state. Totalitarian regimes often employ mechanisms such as propaganda, censorship, and surveillance to enforce ideology and suppress dissent, aiming to mold society in accordance with their specific goals and beliefs.

The characteristic of comprehensive regulation distinguishes totalitarianism from other forms of governance, such as authoritarian systems, where the government might exert control in political aspects but may allow some degree of freedom in social or economic spheres. Hence, the choice that recognizes totalitarianism's regulation of all aspects of citizens' lives accurately encapsulates its essence, painting a picture of a society where state control is pervasive and seeks to eliminate any divide between public and private life.