Despotism

Despotism is a form of government in which a single entity rules with absolute power. That entity may be an individual, as in an autocracy, or it may be a group, as in an oligarchy. The word despotism means to "rule in the fashion of a despot" and does not necessarily require a singular "despot", an individual.

Characteristics

Despotism can be a form of government or a pathologic category (i.e., a form of government in which the ruler is an absolute dictator (not restricted by a constitution, laws or opposition etc.)). The Despot desires to rule alone, without any laws, constitution, or legally organized opposition.

History

The term despotism is often used to condemn a ruler's abuse of power. In this sense, it is used to denote tyranny, absolutism, or dictatorship. The Greek word despotes means "master" or "one with power", and it has been used to translate a wide variety of titles and positions. It was used by the Greeks to refer to any kind of absolute ruler.

Modern Usage

In modern times, despotism has often been associated with a regime that treats the population as a whole with contempt and cruelty. Despotism can mean tyranny (dominance through threat of punishment and violence), absolutism, dictatorship (a form of government in which the ruler is an absolute dictator, not restricted by a constitution, laws or opposition, etc.), totalitarianism, and autocracy (a system of government in which supreme power is concentrated in the hands of one person).

See Also

• Autocracy
• Dictatorship
• Tyranny
• Totalitarianism
• Oligarchy

References

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