Political systems

Direct democracy

Every citizen has a direct say in decision making.

Ex: ancient athens, switzerland (sometimes)

Representative

Ppl choose leaders thru elections, those govern in their names.

Ex: US, germany, india

Constitutional monarchy

Monarch is the symbolic head, while elected officials run the government.

Ex: UK, sweden, japan

Authoritarian

One leader/ small group holds strong central power with limited political freedoms.

Ex: china, francoist spain

Totalitarian

Extreme form of authoritarianism where the state seeks to control all aspects of life, including thought, media, education, private life.

Ex: north korea, nazi germany, stalins USSR

Oligarchy

Power is held by small group of elites.

Ex: russia, ancient sparta

Technocracy

Government led by experts, scientists or technical specialists.

Ex: sometimes used in crisis management

Theocracy

Religious leaders govern or laws based on religious texts.

Ex: iran, vatican city, tibet under dalai lama

Dictatorship

Dictator has total power, often taken and kept by force.

Ex: hitler, saddam hussein (iraq)

Absolute monarchy

King/ queen has unlimited power, not restricted by law or constitution.

Ex: saudi arabia, france under louis XIV

Communist

All property is publicly owned. Each person works and is paid according to their needs and abilities.

Ex: soviet union, cuba, china (mixed with capitalism)

Colonialist

A country takes control over foreign land, often exploiting economically and politically.

Ex: british empire in india, french colonies in africa

Aristocratic

Ruled by nobility and upper class, often based on birthright, wealth and privilege.

Ex: france before the revolution

Liberal

Favoring individual rights, freedom, democracy and often progressive reform.

Ex: modern liberal parties in western democracies

Conservative

Favoring tradition, stability, limited government and slow change.

Ex: conservative parties in UK or US

Socialist

Major industries and resources are owned collectively or by the state, aiming to reduce inequality.

Ex: scandinavian countries, venezuela

Fascist

Far right, authoritarian system that promotes nationalism, militarism, dictatorship and suppression of opposition.

Ex: nazi germany, mussolinis italy

Anarchist

Belief in no government or rulers, society should be voluntary and self organized.

Ex: movements during spanish civil war

Nationalist

Belief that ppl with a common identity, culture or ethnicity should have their own independent nation.

Ex: indian independence movement, nazi germany

Capitalist

Private individuals or companies own businesses. Production is guided by profit and competition.

Ex: US, singapore, australia

Militarist

Emphasizes a strong military, often placing it at the center of government and society.

Ex: nazi germany, imperial japan, north korea