Word
authoritarianism
Meanings
A political system or approach to governing in which power is held by a ruler or small group with limited democratic accountability and restricted freedoms.
A belief or tendency to demand strict obedience and control, often at the expense of individual autonomy.
Definition
Authoritarianism is a system of rule in which power is concentrated in a leader or small group and political freedoms are sharply limited.
Authoritarianism describes a style of government where authority is centralized and leaders face few effective checks. Elections, courts, media, and civil society are often controlled or weakened. Dissent may be discouraged through surveillance, censorship, intimidation, or force. The term can also describe attitudes that favor strict obedience and strong control over individual rights.
Examples
- The documentary traces how authoritarianism can expand gradually, reshaping institutions before citizens realize what has changed.
- I worry that authoritarianism becomes easier to justify when fear dominates public debate and nuance disappears.
- They argued that authoritarianism thrives where independent journalism is undermined and critical voices are isolated.
- She studied authoritarianism in comparative politics, focusing on how regimes manage loyalty and suppress dissent.
- You can see the appeal of authoritarianism in moments of crisis, when people prioritize order over accountability.
Common mistake
Learners often confuse authoritarianism (a political system or controlling ideology) with authority (legitimate power or expertise).
More at C1 level
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More nouns
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