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Cult of the Leader
In a terror state, the leader often assumes the role of a God-like superhero. By adding a metaphysical quality to their terroristic, often fascist dictatorship, the administration of the state can control the image of the dictator in such a way as to create a being that is not to be questioned or obeyed. This is often done through creating an appearance of consistent work, feats of strength, and immunity to outside influence. By creating an image of demagogy, the leader of a terror state can appear to be idyllic and undefeatable. In doing so, the leader helps to form not only an image of the administration, but of the nation (Lovatt, 1999).
This idealistic concept of the "cult leader" comes from characteristics that encourage the development of such a leader. For those governments that cannot base legitimacy on tradition or on rational legal authority, there is a need to persuade the population of its right to rule. Through a God-like ruler, the administration can cause symbolic attachment by the people to the ideology and program of the ruling powers. Further, if the terror state ruler shows an ability to satisfy the needs of a society, particularly in times of crisis, the leader role becomes even more popular. Terror states, already plagued by economic failure and social conflict, respond to such a strengthening in legitimation (Rees, 2000).
Not all states in crisis will fall to the development of a "cult of the leader." The reason is based in other possible legitimacy outlets. As mentioned, some governments and leaders are able to become legitimate and powerful through simple tradition and legal authority. In those states, a cult leader is not required, since the need to create a false reality does not exist.
In today's technological society, terror state leaders will have a more difficult time setting the stage for "cult of the leader" situations. With the ability to communicate outside one's own region through the internet, individuals are less likely to view leaders through ethnocentric eyes. Further, with news sources from around the world, the population of such states will be able not only to see the facts as their leaders present them, but the truth from outside sources.
References
Lovatt, C.A. (1999). Ceausescu's return. Central Europe Review 1(9): 14-15.
Rees, E.A. (2000). Leader Cults: Varieties, Preconditions and Functions. The Leader Cult in Communist Dictatorship. Hampshire: Palgrave McMillan.
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