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Authoritarian Dictators

Definition

An authoritarian dictator is a leader who exercises absolute power over a state, often obtained and maintained by force, and without regard for democratic practices or individual freedoms.

Analogy

Think of an authoritarian dictator like the strictest teacher you've ever had. They make all the rules, don't allow any discussion or debate, and punish anyone who steps out of line. The classroom (or in this case, the country) runs exactly how they want it to run with no input from students (or citizens).

Related terms

Totalitarianism: This is a political system where the state holds total authority over society and seeks to control all aspects of public and private life wherever possible.

Despotism: This is a form of government in which a single entity rules with absolute power. That entity may be an individual, as in an autocracy, or it may be a group.

Fascism: This is a form of far-right, authoritarian political ideology that centrally places nation (and often race) above individuals' rights. It's characterized by dictatorial power and forcible suppression of opposition.