TechnologyJuly 17, 2026
autocrat
/ˈɔːtəˌkræt/
Definition
A ruler who possesses absolute and centralized power, governing without the democratic systems of checks and balances found in many Western nations.
Etymology
Derived from the Greek 'autokratēs', which combines 'autos' (self) and 'kratos' (power or rule). The term entered English in the early 17th century to describe monarchs who held unlimited authority.
In the news
The article uses the term to differentiate political systems, specifically referencing a study that found AI models may be less critical of leaders with absolute, centralized power than of elected Western officials.
Xi urges united global AI push as US bans squeeze China's tech access
Read the full article ↗Euronews.com