Political intimidation

The political exploitation or control of others may be achieved by means of physical or psychological intimidation, through the use of force or superior power used nationally or internationally. Methods of intimidation include indoctrination, diplomatic and military pressures, economic blockade, espionage, terrorism and the maintenance of large standing armies; and on a national level, the use of secret police, political purges, show trials, censorship, corruption, bureaucracy, strong government control over national activities, party control over individuals, inequality before the law, and elitism. Political intimidation may result in general apathy and alienation or, on the contrary, in subversive activities; it may reinforce a totalitarian or dictatorial regime, exploitation and political inequalities.