The Origins of Totalitarianism

By: Hannah Arendt

Narrated by: Nadia May

A recognized classic and definitive account of its subject, The Origins of Totalitarianism traces the emergence of modern racism as an "ideological weapon for imperialism," begining with the rise of anti-Semitism in Europe in the nineteenth century and continuing through the New Imperialism period from 1884 to World War I.

In her analysis of the institutions and operations of totalitarian movements, Arendt focuses on the two genuine forms of totalitarian government in the twentieth century: Nazi Germany and Stalinist Russia, which she adroitly recognizes as two sides of the same coin rather than opposing philosophies of the Right and Left. From this vantage point, she discusses the transformation of classes into masses, the role of propaganda, and the use of terror essential to this form of government. In her brilliant concluding chapter, she discusses the nature of individual isolation and loneliness as preconditions for total domination.

©1966 Hannah Arendt (P)2007 Blackstone Audio, Inc.

Haunting

A book of such keen and lasting insights, it almost reads like a contemporary analysis.

Deep and complex, gets better as it progresses

Admitidly very long, but overall really interesting. The first 70-80% is slow, and contains long discussions of topics which later I couldn't remember why they were relevant, but the last 20-30% was packed with really insightful discussions on totalitarianism.

Much to consider

If you don't know much about political science especially as it relates to our recent world history, you may need to research whilst reading. I will be reading this again but this time in print so I can take notes and do research. I have read a few other books by Arendt, so I assumed this first go round would be an introduction to a topic I wish to know in depth.
I listen at work while stocking shelves so I didn't make many notes on audible but there were at least 20 times I was struck by her words that directly described things brewing in the United States government currently. So I made a few notes I most urgently wanted to research.

Rewards Patience

Even with the benefit of corrective hindsight, this remains the definitive work on how Totalitarianism arrives and how it works. Even newer texts that argue with Arendt have a high bar to meet if they choose to disagree and contend with this brilliant and incisive book.

This is NOT light reading. It's astonishingly detailed and showcases all of Arendt's encyclopedic knowledge of the relevant factors. Expect to get lost. This book deserves its own accompanying wiki.

Where the book goes wrong is not obvious, and you will wonder if she wasn't right after all. Perhaps not, but you'll have to martial your facts to show it.

You *will* be glad you gave this book your patience.

One of the best nonfiction books of the 20th century

Great perspective from someone experienced first hand the rise of totalitarian governments if the first half of the 20th century. A thought provoking piece of political philosophy that is relevant today and accessible to those of us without philosophical training. The reader will need some background in 19th and 20th century history however.