PoliticsAugust 18, 2026

authoritarianism

uh-THOR-ih-tair-ee-uh-niz-uhm

Definition

A form of government or social system characterized by strong central power, limited political freedoms, and the expectation of obedience to authority.

Etymology

Derived from the English word 'authority' and the Latin 'auctoritas' (opinion, decision, power). The '-ism' suffix was added to describe the political system itself.

In the news

The article uses the term in the context of an upcoming event titled 'Aiding Autocrats: Migration Management, Governance and Repression in Africa' to describe the political structures being analyzed.

Baker Institute fall calendar brings global leaders, foreign policy scholars and science innovators to Houston

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