Authoritarian Regimes
Definition
Authoritarian regimes are political systems characterized by centralized power held by one individual or a small group who exercise authority without meaningful checks from other branches or institutions. These regimes often suppress dissenting voices and limit civil liberties.
Analogy
Imagine an authoritarian regime as a strict parent who makes all decisions for their child without considering their opinions. The child's freedom is restricted while the parent maintains complete control over their life.
Related terms
Totalitarianism: A form of authoritarianism where the government seeks to control all aspects of public and private life.
Dictatorship: A type of authoritarian regime where power is held by a single leader who often rules with absolute authority.
Censorship: The suppression or restriction of information, ideas, or artistic expression by an authority.
"Authoritarian Regimes" appears in:
Subjects (2)
Study guides (5)
AP Comparative Government - 2.4 Executive Term Limits
AP Comparative Government - 3.1 Civil Society
AP Comparative Government - 3.5 Nature and Role of Political Participation
AP Comparative Government - 3.7 Civil Rights and Civil Liberties
AP Comparative Government - 4.3 What are Political Party Systems?
Practice Questions (5)
- What is the main difference between authoritarian regimes and democratic regimes in dealing with protest movements?
- Because of the following reasons, fascism is distinct from authoritarian regimes present in other nations, such as Iran and Russia:
- How do authoritarian regimes prioritize public order in relation to civil rights and liberties?
- What impact do authoritarian regimes have on political participation?
- How do democratic regimes differ from authoritarian regimes in terms of the impact of political participation?
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