Knowra Authoritarianism Authoritarianism Authoritarianism is a form of government that concentrates political power and restricts meaningful competition and public dissent. It can rely on coercion, controlled institutions, and limits on civil liberties.
Competitive authoritarianism : A regime type in which elections and opposition exist but incumbents systematically violate democratic rules. It shows how authoritarian governments can preserve electoral forms while tilting competition in their favor.
Liberal democracy : A political system combining competitive elections with civil liberties, rule of law, and constraints on government power. Its protections for opposition and individual rights directly oppose core authoritarian restrictions.
Political pluralism : The coexistence and political participation of multiple groups, interests, and viewpoints. Authoritarian systems restrict independent centers of political organization and influence.
Democratic backsliding : The gradual weakening of democratic institutions, norms, and constraints on government power. It describes a path by which elected governments can move toward authoritarian rule.
Francisco Franco : Spanish military leader who ruled Spain as dictator from the end of the Spanish Civil War until 1975. His regime illustrates authoritarian rule grounded in military victory and centralized leadership.
Censorship : The suppression or restriction of information, expression, or communication by authorities or other powerful actors. Controlling public information limits criticism and helps governments shape political narratives.
Totalitarianism : A regime seeking extensive control over public and private life through an official ideology and mobilization. It represents a more expansive ambition of control than authoritarianism alone requires.
Civil liberties : Individual freedoms protected from undue government interference, including expression, association, and conscience. Restrictions on these freedoms constrain dissent and collective action.
Political repression : The use of state power to deter, punish, or disable political opposition and dissent. Repression enforces limits on challenges to authoritarian authority.
Augusto Pinochet : Chilean military ruler who led a dictatorship from 1973 to 1990 after a coup against Salvador Allende. Chile under Pinochet exemplifies military dictatorship and systematic political repression.
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