A common characteristic of authoritarian governments is that they impose strict regulations and control on their subjects to ensure compliance and obedience. To achieve this goal, they often create an atmosphere of fear and distrust within the society. One way they do this is by creating erotic archetypes of ideal citizens, which are used to shape public attitudes towards sex, sexuality, and gender roles. These archetypes are meant to be aspirational models for the population, who are encouraged to conform to these norms if they want to be considered successful and upstanding members of society.
The purpose of these archetypes is to maintain loyalty and conformity among the populace. They serve to keep people from questioning the status quo and challenging the authority of those in power. By presenting certain types of individuals as desirable and attractive, the government creates a sense of social pressure to emulate them. This can lead to a loss of individuality and self-expression, as people feel they must conform to societal expectations to fit in.
These archetypes may reinforce traditional gender roles and norms, which can limit opportunities for women and LGBTQ+ individuals.
In North Korea, the "kokdu" (flower girl) is an idealized figure representing female beauty, intelligence, and purity. Women who meet this standard are expected to be submissive and devoted wives and mothers, with no independent ambitions or interests outside of their domestic lives. The "pukku" (manly man), on the other hand, embodies masculinity and strength, traits that are highly valued in Korean culture. Men who fail to live up to this ideal may be seen as weak or untrustworthy. These archetypes create a sense of shame and embarrassment around nonconformity, discouraging people from pursuing alternative lifestyles or expressing themselves freely.
In China, the "jiaofu" (good wife and wise mother) ideal places emphasis on a woman's ability to be a good homemaker and caretaker. She should be obedient, loyal, and supportive of her husband, while also maintaining a high level of physical attractiveness. This archetype reinforces the importance of family values and the traditional gender roles of men and women, which can make it difficult for women to pursue education or career goals. Similarly, the "wanghong" (fashionable and trendy) personality trait encourages people to conform to mainstream styles and behaviors, often at the expense of individuality.
By creating these erotic archetypes, authoritarian governments seek to control and manipulate public opinion. They use fear and social pressure to keep people from questioning the status quo and challenging those in power.
By promoting strict adherence to certain ideals, they also limit opportunities for self-expression and personal growth. Individuals must learn how to navigate these constraints and find ways to assert their own identities, even within such oppressive systems.
How do authoritarian systems construct erotic archetypes of ideal citizens, and what psychological functions do these archetypes serve in maintaining loyalty and conformity?
Authoritarian systems often portray an ideal citizen who is obedient, submissive, and follows orders unquestioningly. These archetypes are constructed through propaganda campaigns that glorify the leader as infallible and the people as weak and inferior, emphasizing the need for strict discipline and order.