Overview
Authoritarianism is rule by the few (or the one) without the consent of the many. It prioritizes order and control over individual freedom.
Core Idea
The core idea is obedience. The state is the ultimate authority, and dissent is not tolerated.
Formal Definition
A regime type characterized by:
- Limited political pluralism (no real opposition parties).
- Legitimacy based on emotion (nationalism) or performance (economic growth), not elections.
- Executive power that is vague and shifting.
Intuition
It’s the strict parent model of government. “Do what I say because I know best.”
- Dictatorship: Rule by one person.
- Oligarchy: Rule by a small group (junta, party).
- Totalitarianism: Extreme authoritarianism that tries to control every aspect of life (thoughts, art, family). (e.g., North Korea, Nazi Germany).
Examples
- China: A one-party state that allows economic freedom but no political freedom.
- Saudi Arabia: An absolute monarchy.
- Russia: A “managed democracy” where elections happen, but the outcome is predetermined.
Common Misconceptions
- Misconception: Authoritarian regimes are always unstable.
- Correction: Some (like the CCP in China) have lasted for decades by delivering economic growth and using sophisticated surveillance.
- Misconception: They are all violent.
- Correction: Modern “soft authoritarianism” uses legal harassment and media control rather than firing squads.
Related Concepts
- Fascism: Far-right ultranationalist authoritarianism.
- Communism: Often devolves into authoritarianism (Stalinism) despite egalitarian goals.
- Propaganda: Information used to promote a political cause.
Applications
- Foreign Policy: How democracies should deal with dictators (Sanctions? Engagement?).
- History: Understanding the rise of Hitler and Stalin.
Criticism and Limitations
- Succession Crisis: Dictators rarely have a clear plan for who takes over when they die, leading to chaos.
- Information Problem: Subordinates lie to the dictator to please him, so he makes bad decisions (e.g., Putin invading Ukraine).
Further Reading
- The Origins of Totalitarianism by Hannah Arendt
- The Dictator’s Handbook by Bueno de Mesquita