From French "autoritaire", from Latin "auctoritas" ("authority").
Meaning:
Relating to or supporting a form of government in which one person or a small group of people holds absolute power, often without any checks or balances on their authority.
Origin:
The concept of authoritarianism has roots in the ancient world, with examples in empires such as China, Rome, and Persia.
The modern concept of authoritarianism emerged in the early 19th century, in response to the rise of liberal and democratic ideas during the Enlightenment.
The term was first used in a political context by French writer Benjamin Constant in 1815, to describe the centralized and repressive nature of the French government under Napoleon Bonaparte.
Characteristics of Authoritarian Governments:
Concentration of power: One person or a small group holds absolute authority.
Limited political participation: Little to no freedom of speech, assembly, or political dissent.
Centralized control: Government exerts control over all aspects of society, including the economy, media, and education.
Suppression of dissent: Political opponents are often silenced, imprisoned, or exiled.
Lack of checks and balances: No independent institutions to hold the government accountable.
Use of propaganda: Government uses propaganda to control information and shape public opinion.
Military or police dominance: Government relies on military or police force to maintain order and suppress opposition.
