Government systems Flashcards
Autocracy
power is concentrated in the hands of a single individual, such as a king, dictator, or emperor.
Democracy
power lies with the people, who participate directly or indirectly in decision-making through free and fair elections.
Democracies can be direct, as in Ancient Athens, where citizens voted on laws themselves, or representative, like the United States, where elected officials govern on behalf of the people
Oligarchy
small group of people, often based on wealth, family ties, or military control, holds power.
Theocracy
religious leaders govern based on divine authority and religious laws.
Monarchy
government system led by a king, queen, or emperor, and it can be either absolute or constitutional.
absolute monarchy, like Saudi Arabia, the monarch holds complete power. In a constitutional monarchy, such as the United Kingdom, the monarch’s role is ceremonial,
Republic
the head of state is elected, and power rests with representatives chosen by the citizens.
Federalism
power is shared between a central government and regional or state governments.
Totalitarianism
authoritarian system where the state seeks to control all aspects of public and private life.
Communism
all property and means of production are collectively owned, aiming for a classless society.
Socialism
government control of key industries and services to promote social welfare and reduce inequality.
Anarchy
absence of a formal government or authority, relying on self-governance and voluntary cooperation.
Aristocracy
system where power is held by a privileged class, often determined by heredity, wealth, or nobility.
Military junta
government led by military officials who seize power, often through a coup.
