What best describes a totalitarian system of government?

A totalitarian system of government is characterized by centralized control by the state, where the government holds significant power over many aspects of life, including political, social, and economic activities. In this type of regime, the government often suppresses individual freedoms and dissent to maintain its authority. The state employs various means, such as propaganda, censorship, and state surveillance, to ensure conformity and loyalty among the populace.

In contrast, unlimited freedom of expression is typically associated with democratic systems, not totalitarian ones, as such regimes often restrict free speech to control narratives. Checks and balances are features of democratic governance designed to prevent any one branch of government from becoming too powerful, which is fundamentally opposed to the principles of totalitarianism. Regular elections for leadership are also hallmarks of democratic processes and are usually absent in totalitarian systems, where leadership is often maintained through force or coercion rather than through popular vote.