1. Authoritarianism

2. Authoritarian systems may also claim to serve the will of the people (or at least the best interests of the state) Fundamental belief: - a small elite is better able to govern than a majority Most authoritarian systems still have constitutions although many don’t provide any real protection for individual rights & freedoms

3. Oligarchy –Gov’t is controlled by a small elite (ex: one family, a social class, or leaders of major industries) –Elite serves its own interests at the expense of the majority –Russia – technically a democracy, in reality an oligarchy or authoritarian state under Vladimir Putin (election fraud, media control, limited political rights for opposition, etc.) One-Party State –One party runs the state, no other political parties exist –Phony elections

4. Military Dictatorship: –Power seized by force in a coup d’etat  the army takes control of gov’t –Also known as a military junta –Often exist during transitions from one regime to another or from an authoritarian system to a more democratic one –Military argues they can provide stability during times of crisis Absolute Monarchy: –Monarch achieves power by heredity –Common in Europe up until the 19 th and 20 th centuries

5. Techniques of Authoritarian Gov’t: –Emphasis on ideological vision (ex: Communist utopia, Hitler’s “Thousand Year Reich” and “Master Race”, etc.) –Use of propaganda and media control –Controlled participation – citizens allowed to participate in rallies, local party organizations, youth groups, etc.  but limits on political freedom and opposing ideologies  emphasis on conformity –Redirection of political discontent as a unifying force  scapegoating, identification of enemies –Use of violence and terror

6. Pros & Cons ADVANTAGES: –Quick decision making process –Political stability and social order (due to high level of control) –Can more easily deal with conflict and unrest amongst the citizenry –Strong military –Rapid mobilization of resources to meet national goals DISADVANTAGES: –Abuse of human rights, lack of freedom for citizens –Elitism: decisions not always in the best interests of society –Widespread corruption –Reliance on force to legitimize leadership –Death of leader frequently results in a struggle for power and destabilization of the state