He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named: Rowling got the idea for this from two 1950s London gangsters called the Kray Twins. "The story goes that people didn’t speak the name Kray. You just didn’t mention it. You didn’t talk about them, because retribution was so brutal and bloody. I think this is an impressive demonstration of strength, that you can convince someone not to use your name. Impressive in the sense that demonstrates how deep the level of fear is that you can inspire. It’s not something to be admired." (TLC). As soon as Voldemort took control of the Ministry in 1997, he reinforced this fear by putting a taboo on speaking his name. Anyone brave enough to say 'Voldemort' would have their locations immediately revealed to "snatchers" or other enforcement squads who would come and take you into custody (DH).
OK, so not as bad as the Kray twins. I accept that.
Best book I have read on the era is Tyler Hamilton's account co-written with Dan Coyle:
"The Secret Race: Inside the Hidden World of the Tour de France: Doping, Cover-ups, and Winning at All Costs"
If TH is to be believed then yes, he-who-must-not-be-named did use fear to impose his will and yes he was different from other cyclists. No remorse, no genuine repentance IMO. He may not be Voldemort but he is like a zombie that keeps coming back.