Arendt labours to provide a comprehensive discussion of the origins of totalitarianism by referring to the historical underpinnings of Antisemitism, Imperialism and the Totalitarian rule of Nazi Germany and Bolshevik Russia. I found this book informative as I had naively assumed that antisemitism was a creation of Hitler’s final solution. Arendt discusses how historically Jewish people were perceived as ‘other’ due to their statelessness, their utility to international monarchies as financiers and their lack of political interest. With the revolution of the masses and class liquidation, antisemitism became more apparent as Jewish people were more accessible to attack due to their lack of political protection, which the Bourgeoisie had to their advantage. With the creation of republics, as usurpers to monarchist rule, Jewish inherent financial power lacked apparent legitimacy and created animosity from the masses, in much the same way that immigrants are perceived by nationalists today. Arendt’s discussion of imperialism and colonist rule explains the origins of totalitarian ideology of expansion and extermination of people deemed as ‘other’, alongside racism and the creation of contemporary class due to the political emancipation of the Bourgeoisie; where self-made money now dictates social standing. Essentially the stage for totalitarianism was set long before it became apparent in both Russia and Germany at the helm of Stalin and Hitler. Arendt explains that disaffection with a current political system leads to mass movements where the objective is change regardless of the quality of outcome; anything to overthrow the current system is deemed a success. The supplanting of ideology and manipulation of deceitful propaganda becomes but a marionette for Stalin and Hitler to puppeteer towards the liquidation of opposition in concentration camps. Overall an insightful read which draws horrifying parallels with contemporary politics yet the book was wrought with poor articulation in terms of writing style, with superfluous description which could have easily been made more concise. The writing made an interesting topic arduous to get through. Goodreads 2/5 stars.
