Authoritarian rule
Definition
Authoritarian rule refers to a type of governance where power is concentrated in one leader or small group without meaningful accountability or checks on their authority. It often involves limited political freedoms, suppression of opposition, and strict control over society.
Analogy
Imagine a school where the principal has complete control over everything - from deciding what subjects are taught to how students should behave. The principal's word is final, and there is no room for questioning or dissent. This represents authoritarian rule.
Related terms
Autocracy: Autocracy refers to a system of government where one person holds unlimited power.
Censorship: Censorship involves controlling or suppressing information, ideas, or artistic expression that may be considered politically sensitive or objectionable by those in power.
Oligarchy: An oligarchy is a form of government where power rests with a small group of individuals who hold significant influence and control.
"Authoritarian rule" appears in:
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Practice Questions (1)
- Which of the following terms refers to a process in which democratic institutions erode and give way to authoritarian rule?
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