In its classical form, despotism is a state in which a single individual (the despot) holds all the power and authority embodying the state, and everyone else is a subsidiary person. This form of despotism was common in the first forms of statehood and civilization; the Pharaoh of Egypt is an exemplary figure of the classical despot.

The meaning of DESPOTISM is oppressive absolute power and authority exerted by government : rule by a despot. How to use despotism in a sentence.

the rule of a despot; the exercise of absolute authority. absolute power or control; tyranny. an absolute or autocratic government. a country ruled by a despot. From the French word …

DESPOTISM definition: 1. the rule of a despot (= a ruler with unlimited power, often one who is unfair and cruel): 2…. Learn more.

Oct 10, 2024 · Despotism is a form of government in which a single ruler has absolute power over the political and social life of a country. The ruler may be a monarch or an autocrat.

Apr 23, 2024 · Despotism is a term used in sociology to describe a form of government or leadership characterized by absolute power and control. In this system, the ruler or leader exercises unlimited authority and often suppresses opposition or dissent.

Despotism is a form of government that is controlled by one person or a small group of people. [1] The person who controls the state is called a despot. They have no elections, or the elections are rigged. The despot has complete control of the state, like a dictator or tyrant. [2]

Sep 19, 2017 · Despotism can mean dictatorship where the ruler in a particular government is a complete dictator not limited by a constitution, other laws, or the opposition. Despotism can also mean absolutism or tyranny.

Aristotle began an important Western tradition of thought by distinguishing Persian ‘despotism’ from Greek tyranny. Tyranny was usurped, unstable power, wielded coercively, while despotism was persistent and stable, depending on the acquiescence of the people, often the only authority they knew and therefore essentially legal.

Despotism is a way of ruling in which the leader has total, unchecked power. Joseph Stalin purged the Soviet Union of all his opponents in order to rule the country through despotism. He didn’t have many friends. Despotism can also describe tyranny, the wielding of power through cruelty and terror.