authoritarianism

Definition

A form of government in which the governing body has absolute, or almost absolute, control. Typically this control is maintained by force, and little heed is paid to public opinion or the judicial system.

Etymology

From authoritarian + -ism.

Example Sentences

• "Near-synonyms: dictatorialism; autocratism; totalitarianism (see usage note there)"
• "This is the struggle of our time. The forces of freedom, openness and global community against the forces of authoritarianism, isolationism and nationalism."
• "Working from a psycho-dynamic perspective, Fromm explained authoritarianism as a response to the breakdown of traditional social structures brought about by industrialization and modernization."