Page 461 - Sociology and You
P. 461
Chapter 13 Political and Economic Institutions
431
What category of leader does Cuban President Fidel Castro represent?
Authoritarianism
For sociologists, authoritarianism is a middle category between democ- racy and totalitarianism, although it is closer to totalitarianism than to democracy. Authoritarianism refers to a political system controlled by elected or nonelected rulers who usually permit some degree of individual freedom but do not allow popular participation in government. Countless governments have leaned toward totalitarianism but have fallen short of all its defining characteristics. These governments are classified as authoritarian. Examples include certain monarchies (the dynasties of the shahs of Iran), and military seizures of power (Fidel Castro’s takeover of Cuba).
Section 1 Assessment
1. What is the difference between authority and coercion?
2. Which type of authority places the strongest limits on government
officials?
3. Explain how direct democracy differs from representative democracy.
4. Briefly describe the three major types of political systems.
Critical Thinking
5. Sequencing Information Like all organizations, high schools are based on some form of authority. Explain, with examples, which form or forms of authority you believe are applicable to high schools.
6. SynthesizingInformation Inwhichformofgovernmentwouldyou
authoritarianism
a political system controlled by elected or nonelected rulers who usually permit some degree of individual freedom
expect to find charismatic authority? Traditional authority? Rational-legal authority?
