Define "autocracy."

The definition of "autocracy" refers to a system of government where one individual holds absolute power and authority over the state and its citizens. This centralization of power means that the autocrat, often a dictator or a monarch, makes decisions without requiring consent or input from others. This contrasts with systems where power might be distributed or shared among a group of people, such as in democracies or oligarchies.

In the context of governance, an autocracy can limit individual freedoms and may not provide mechanisms for political pluralism, meaning there is typically no competition for leadership or alternative governing philosophies. Examining the characteristics of an autocracy helps to understand the implications of concentrated power and the potential for authoritarian rule.