Which term describes government by a single person with unlimited power?

Which term describes government by a single person with unlimited power?

• A. Autocracy
• B. Oligarchy
• C. Democracy
• D. Theocracy

Answer: (A)

Power is concentrated in one person who makes decisions with little or no constraint. This form of government centers authority in a single ruler who can enact policies and laws without needing broad consent or checks from other branches, institutions, or the public. That clarity of sole leadership is what defines an autocracy. Oligarchy, in contrast, is rule by a small group rather than a single person. Democracy is rule by the people, typically through elections and shared governing processes. Theocracy governs according to religious authority or law. Understanding these distinctions helps see why autocracy is the term that fits a government led by one individual with unlimited power.

Power is concentrated in one person who makes decisions with little or no constraint. This form of government centers authority in a single ruler who can enact policies and laws without needing broad consent or checks from other branches, institutions, or the public. That clarity of sole leadership is what defines an autocracy.

Oligarchy, in contrast, is rule by a small group rather than a single person. Democracy is rule by the people, typically through elections and shared governing processes. Theocracy governs according to religious authority or law. Understanding these distinctions helps see why autocracy is the term that fits a government led by one individual with unlimited power.