Authoritarianism: meaning, definitions and examples

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authoritarianism

[əˌθɔːrɪˈteriənɪzəm ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

government system

Authoritarianism is a form of government characterized by strong central power and limited political freedoms. It relies on the absolute authority of a single leader or a small group of individuals. In an authoritarian regime, there is little to no tolerance for dissent or opposition.

Synonyms

autocracy, despotism, dictatorship.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
authoritarianism	Also used to describe attitudes or behaviors that favor strict obedience to authority at the expense of personal freedom. His authoritarianism in managing the team led to many employees leaving. There is a growing concern about authoritarianism in the school discipline policies.
autocracy	Usually used to refer to a system of government where one person holds unlimited power without checks and balances. It is often neutral in tone but can become negative depending on context. The region was once an autocracy ruled by a single monarch. In an autocracy, decisions are made quickly, but they might not reflect the will of the people.
dictatorship	Refers to a government or a situation where a single person or a small group wields absolute power, typically without fair elections. It often implies a negative view of the regime. The country's long-standing dictatorship has been marked by severe human rights abuses. Living under a dictatorship, people have little say in how they are governed.
despotism	Carries a strong negative connotation and describes a form of government where a single entity rules with absolute power, often in a cruel and oppressive manner. The rebellion was a response to years of despotism under the tyrant's rule. Despotism often leads to widespread fear and suffering among the populace.

Examples of usage

Many authoritarian regimes suppress freedom of speech and assembly.
Citizens living under authoritarianism often face restrictions on their civil liberties.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

leadership style

Authoritarianism can also refer to a leadership style that is domineering and controlling, where decisions are made unilaterally by the leader without input from others. This style often leads to a hierarchical structure with strict rules and regulations.

Synonyms

dictatorial, oppressive, tyrannical.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
authoritarianism	Situations where a government or a leader enforces strict obedience at the cost of personal freedoms, often without fair elections. The country has been under authoritarianism for decades, limiting free speech and public dissent. She studied authoritarianism in political science, focusing on its impact on human rights.
dictatorial	Similar to authoritarian but often implying more direct and absolute control, typically in a negative way. The dictatorial regime was known for its harsh punishments and censorship. Her dictatorial approach stifled innovation in the team.
oppressive	Describing something or someone that inflicts hardship and constraint, often used in human rights contexts. The oppressive laws limited the community's ability to practice their traditions freely. Living under an oppressive government meant constant fear of arbitrary arrest.
tyrannical	Implying severe and unjust rule or behavior, usually with a strong negative connotation. The tyrannical king imposed heavy taxes on his subjects. She described the corporate policy as tyrannical and unfair.

Examples of usage

The CEO's authoritarian management style alienated many employees.
His authoritarian approach stifled creativity within the team.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

The term comes from the Latin word 'authoritas' meaning 'authority', rooted in a system where one can make decisions without needing permission.
Authoritarian regimes often emerged during times of crisis, like wars or revolutions, as leaders promised stability in exchange for control.
In the 20th century, many countries transitioned to authoritarian styles of government following economic hardships, notably in Europe and Latin America.

Political Science

Authoritarianism contrasts with democracy, where power is distributed among the people who elect their leaders.
Unlike full dictatorships, some authoritarian systems, known as hybrid regimes, hold limited elections but still limit civil rights.
The rise of technology has allowed authoritarian regimes to monitor citizens, influencing political dissent and societal compliance.

Psychology

Research shows that people under authoritarian regimes may experience heightened anxiety and reduced happiness due to the lack of personal freedoms.
Authoritarian parenting shares traits with authoritarian governance; it is strict and often dismisses children's opinions and feelings.
Individuals raised in authoritarian environments may develop dependence on authority figures, shaping their adult relationships.

Cultural Representation

Literature often explores themes of authoritarianism, such as in George Orwell's '1984', depicting life under strict government control.
Film, like 'The Lives of Others', examines the effects of authoritarian regimes on individuals and society, highlighting personal resistance.
Art movements have responded to authoritarianism, with works expressing dissent and fear, capturing the struggle for freedom.

Current Events

Some countries today display authoritarian tendencies through censorship of media and suppression of opposition movements.
International organizations monitor and respond to authoritarian regimes, advocating for human rights and democratic principles.
The COVID-19 pandemic sparked debates about authoritarianism, as some governments imposed strict measures under the guise of public health.

Translations

Translations of the word "authoritarianism" in other languages:

🇵🇹 autoritarismo

🇮🇳 सत्तावाद

🇩🇪 Autoritarismus

🇮🇩 otoritarianisme

🇺🇦 авторитаризм

🇵🇱 autorytaryzm

🇯🇵 権威主義 (けんいしゅぎ)

🇫🇷 autoritarisme

🇪🇸 autoritarismo

🇹🇷 otoriterlik

🇰🇷 권위주의 (권위주의)

🇸🇦 استبدادية (استبداد)

🇨🇿 autoritarismus

🇸🇰 autoritarizmus

🇨🇳 专制主义 (zhuānzhì zhǔyì)

🇸🇮 avtoritarizem

🇮🇸 alræðishyggja

🇰🇿 авторитаризм

🇬🇪 ავტორიტარიზმი

🇦🇿 avtoritarizm

🇲🇽 autoritarismo

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,787, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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20784 pursed
20785 wiry
20786 announcer
20787 authoritarianism
20788 imaged
20789 outgrown
20790 plaid
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