The political regime is characterized by a set of means and methods of exercising political power in the state. There are three key types of political regimes - authoritarian, democratic and totalitarian.
Instructions
Step 1
According to political scientists, the most widespread political regime in the world is authoritarian. It is believed that under this political regime, most of the world's population lives. Examples of authoritarian states are Iran, Morocco, Libya, Mexico, Venezuela, Saudi Arabia, and some countries of the post-Soviet space. It is precisely about the practical implementation of power, while at the legislative level, these states can theoretically be democratic.
Step 2
Authoritarian states possess a number of characteristics that distinguish them from other political regimes. It occupies an intermediate position between democracy and totalitarianism. It is close to democracy, because preserves economic freedom, with totalitarianism - the unlimited nature of power.
Step 3
One of the hallmarks of an authoritarian regime is the limited number of power holders. It can be concentrated in the hands of one person, or belong to a narrow group of people (military, oligarchs, etc.). Power is unlimited and beyond the control of citizens. Power relies on laws, but civil initiatives are not taken into account when they are passed. At the same time, the principles of the rule of law and equality of all before the law remain only on paper.
Step 4
Under authoritarianism, the principle of real separation of powers is not implemented and the independence of the judiciary is not ensured. Power is centralized, and local representative bodies do not actually fulfill their functions.
Step 5
An authoritarian political regime can enjoy widespread popular support. He even admits the presence of opposition and competition, but they are usually controlled by the authorities. It can even initiate the creation of opposition parties itself in order to create external conformity to the democratic regime. The real opposition has practically no access to the distribution of political resources and is forced out of political life in every possible way. Under authoritarianism, the government does not necessarily resort to repression, but always has the ability to force citizens to obey its will. Often authoritarian regimes are formed with a passive social base.
Step 6
Despite the fact that the authorities strive to ensure total control over the political sphere of society's life, they have minimal impact on the economy. Thus, authoritarianism can easily coexist with a market economy. The cultural sphere remains relatively independent, the institutions of civil society can function, but they remain within a limited framework and have no political weight.
Step 7
Elections in such societies are decorative and serve as a means of legitimizing the political regime. They often have a high level of political participation, and the percentage of support for the desired candidate or party approaches 100%. The electoral struggle does not ensure the recruitment of the elites, but their appointment is made from above.
Step 8
The advantages of authoritarian regimes are credited with the ability to ensure political stability and order in societies. They are highly effective in transitional societies. Their common drawback is that the authorities are not under the control of the people, which can lead to an increase in social tension.
