authoritarianism

[uh-thawr-i-tair-ee-uh-niz-uhm]

authoritarianism Definition

• 1. the enforcement or advocacy of strict obedience to authority at the expense of personal freedom
• 2. a political system based on the principle of absolute power and authority, typically with suppression of individual freedom

Using authoritarianism: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "authoritarianism" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The country's shift towards authoritarianism has been met with widespread protests.

• Example

  The regime's authoritarianism was marked by censorship and repression of dissenting voices.

• Example

  The book explores the psychological roots of authoritarianism and its impact on society.

authoritarianism Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for authoritarianism

• totalitarianism
• despotism
• tyranny
• dictatorship

Antonyms for authoritarianism

• democracy
• liberalism

Phrases with authoritarianism

• economic authoritarianism

  a system in which the government exercises significant control over economic activity, often through state ownership or regulation

  Example

  The country's economic authoritarianism has led to a lack of innovation and investment.

• cultural authoritarianism

  a system in which the government exercises significant control over cultural expression, often through censorship or propaganda

  Example

  The regime's cultural authoritarianism extended to the arts and media, with many works being banned or censored.

• religious authoritarianism

  a system in which the government exercises significant control over religious expression, often through restrictions or persecution of certain beliefs or practices

  Example

  The country's religious authoritarianism has led to the suppression of minority religions and the persecution of religious dissidents.

Origins of authoritarianism

from 'authoritarian' + '-ism'

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Summary: authoritarianism in Brief

Authoritarianism [uh-thawr-i-tair-ee-uh-niz-uhm] refers to the enforcement or advocacy of strict obedience to authority at the expense of personal freedom. It can also denote a political system based on the principle of absolute power and authority, typically with suppression of individual freedom. Examples of authoritarianism include censorship, repression, and persecution of dissenting voices. The term extends into phrases like 'economic authoritarianism,' 'cultural authoritarianism,' and 'religious authoritarianism,' denoting government control over economic, cultural, and religious expression.