Authoritarianism

Authoritarianism is a political and social system characterized by centralized control, limited individual freedoms, and minimal accountability of leadership to the public. Authoritarian regimes often suppress dissent, restrict political pluralism, and rely on coercive institutions, such as the military or police, to maintain order. Sociologists study authoritarianism to analyze its impact on social structures, individual behavior, and collective resistance. The concept also extends to authoritarian tendencies in organizations, families, or cultural practices, where hierarchical authority overrides democratic decision-making. Authoritarianism is contrasted with democratic systems, emphasizing its role in perpetuating inequality, curbing social mobility, and undermining civil rights.