Below is the AI synopsis from a Google search “characteristics of authoritarian governments.” If you don’t think Trump and friends are playing most of these tunes or clearly trying to, well, let’s just agree to disagree and be thankful for what has been, IMO, a very civil, good-faith discussion.
An authoritarian government is a political system characterized by the consolidation of power in the hands of a single leader, a small group, or a ruling party
. Unlike democratic systems, authoritarian regimes do not allow for free and fair elections, extensive political pluralism, or robust protection of civil liberties. The stability of these regimes is often maintained through political repression, control over information, and limited political participation.
Concentration of power
- Centralized authority: Power is concentrated in the executive branch and is not held accountable by the people it governs.
- Weak checks and balances: Authoritarian governments often weaken or eliminate independent institutions like legislatures, courts, and election administration bodies to remove any limits on executive power.
- Indefinite political tenure: Rulers or ruling parties in authoritarian systems have no term limits, allowing them to remain in power indefinitely.
Control of information and dissent
- Limited political pluralism: The government suppresses or controls political opposition by restricting rival parties, interest groups, and political dissent.
- Controlled media and propaganda: State-controlled media is used to spread propaganda and disinformation, while independent media is suppressed through censorship, legal harassment, or control by government allies.
- Quashing dissent: Authoritarian regimes actively suppress free speech, peaceful assembly, and protest. Dissidents and activists are often harassed, imprisoned, or face other consequences.
- Political violence: These regimes may tolerate or actively encourage political violence to intimidate and silence opponents and maintain power.
Control over elections
- Corrupt and unfair elections:Authoritarian systems often hold elections to create a facade of democratic rule, but the process is heavily manipulated to favor the incumbent. Tactics include suppressing votes, biasing rules, and manipulating results.
- Limited participation: Political participation is minimal and is often manufactured through state-sponsored rallies to consolidate in-group identity and support.
Legal and social controls
- Weak rule of law: The government adheres to "rule by law," using the legal system as a tool to advance its interests, rather than the "rule of law," which holds that all are subject to the same legal code.
- Abuse of state power: The power of the state is misused to advance the personal or partisan desires of the ruling elite. This includes persecuting political opponents and funneling resources to loyalists.
- Scapegoating: Minority groups, immigrants, and "outsiders" are often blamed for a country's problems to exploit national insecurities and rally support.
- Stifling civil society: A wide range of social controls are used to suppress civil society, including restrictions on non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and other forms of collective action.
