According to NPA Personality Theory, the origins of totalitarianism can be speculated upon by considering how its core principles might contribute to a social and political environment conducive to such regimes.
Key elements of NPA and potential links to totalitarianism
Genetic Predisposition and Personality Traits: The theory posits that individuals possess varying degrees of innate traits, including sanguinity (related to narcissism), perfectionism, and aggression. Totalitarian leaders, and potentially a segment of the population susceptible to their ideology, may exhibit specific combinations of these traits. For example, leaders high in narcissism might be driven by a desire for absolute power and admiration, while those high in aggression might employ violence and repression to maintain control.
Dominance, Submissiveness, and Hierarchy: NPA theory acknowledges traits of dominance and submissiveness. Totalitarianism relies on a hierarchical structure where a leader or a small group exercises absolute authority, and the populace is expected to be submissive and obedient. Individuals naturally predisposed to submissive behavior or those who find a sense of security in strict hierarchies might be more readily drawn to totalitarian systems.
Fear, Uncertainty, and the Need for Order: Although not explicitly stated as a core NPA trait, susceptibility to fear and uncertainty, combined with a strong desire for order and stability, are characteristics often associated with authoritarian personalities. Times of social and economic upheaval can amplify these traits, creating an environment where individuals crave strong leadership and simplified solutions, even if they come at the cost of individual liberties.
Aggression and the Scapegoating of Outgroups: Individuals high in aggression or those with authoritarian tendencies may be prone to hostility and scapegoating of those who are different or who challenge the established order. Totalitarian regimes often rely on identifying "objective enemies" or outgroups to solidify support and justify their actions, diverting public anger and resentment towards these designated targets.
Rejection of Critical Thinking and Openness: While not directly addressed in the provided snippets regarding NPA, research on authoritarian personality suggests a preference for rigid thinking, a dislike of ambiguity, and a resistance to ideas that challenge their established worldview. This intolerance for dissenting opinions and alternative perspectives can facilitate the suppression of free thought and the imposition of a singular ideology – characteristics of totalitarian states.
Potential for Social Conditioning and Control: NPA theory recognizes the role of social conditioning and influence, although not as explicitly as some other theories. Totalitarian regimes employ extensive propaganda, according to EBSCO, and social control mechanisms to shape public opinion and enforce conformity. Certain personality types might be more receptive to these influences, further consolidating the regime's power.
In summary, the NPA Personality Theory, by examining the interplay of innate personality traits like sanguinity (narcissism), perfectionism, and aggression, can provide a framework for understanding how totalitarian regimes might arise. It suggests that leaders with specific trait combinations could emerge during times of instability, capitalizing on the anxieties and hierarchical preferences of certain segments of the population. According to ScienceDirect.com the rejection of open dialogue and critical thinking could lead to the establishment and maintenance of totalitarian systems. Further research is required to fully explore these hypothesized connections.
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Elaborate on how high sanguinity (narcissism) in leaders might contribute to totalitarianism according to NPA theory

Give examples of historical figures analyzed through the lens of NPA theory

What other personality theories explain totalitarianism's rise?