Autocratic: Can you guess the name of a country that was once an autocracy? (Hint: Rule of the Tsar) Yes, you are right, we are talking about Russia which was ruled by Tsar. Even at the beginning of the twentieth century, the Tsar was not subject to anyone, not even the parliament. But the autocratic rule didn't last long as the Russian revolution ended it. The peasant, workers and revolutionaries all came together to demand a constitution. In this article, we will discuss autocracy as a system of government, its characteristics, advantages and disadvantages.
What is the meaning of autocratic?
Autocratic means a ruler with undisputed influence and power. An autocratic ruler is one who makes decisions on their own without any consultation with other individuals or groups. People are forced to follow the rules set by the ruler.
What is the autocracy system of government?
Any form of government where all the powers of a nation are in the hands of a single person is an autocracy. In such a system of government, power is usually concentrated in the hands of an individual or a group. In simple terms, autocracy can be defined as a form of government with concentrated power. Autocracy can include categories such as dictatorships and monarchies.
Dictatorship- The person is in the hands of a single person known as dictator. A dictator holds complete control over the administration and suppresses rebellion.
Monarchy- Power is in the hands of a hereditary monarch. The king or queen serves as the head of state. The power of a monarch can be absolute or limited by a constitution.
What are the features of autocracy?
The ruler has complete and absolute control over all matters of the country including the people. There is centralized decision making. The people have no say in the process of law formation or enforcement. Communication in such a government flows one way from the ruler to others. One of the most important features of an autocratic government is that the ruler is accountable to no one, be it the people, the press or the courts. The democratic feature of checks and balances simply doesn’t exist in an autocracy. The ruler’s power is not limited by a constitution. An autocratic ruler lays out rules and regulations and people have to follow them.
What are the advantages of autocracy?
Decision making- Leaders can take decisions quickly without any delay due to lack of opposition. This can prove to be an advantage in situations where quick decisions must be taken.
Provides leadership- Autocracy provides leadership where a strong ruler takes control of things and assigns tasks to others. This way everyone knows what they are supposed to do.
Chain of command- In an autocracy there is a clear chain of command. Other people do not have to worry about making tough decisions as the ruler at the top handles the responsibilities.
Productivity- An autocratic ruler keeps a check on everything going on. With the laying of clear goals and enforcement of strict discipline, the subordinates’ productivity increases.
Also Read: Fundamental Rights of India: Definition, Importance, List, Summary And More
What are the disadvantages of autocracy?
No place for creativity- There is no place for creativity in an autocratic form of government. Strict rules and discipline is expected to be followed at all times.
Employee morale- When the subordinates do not feel valued, it immediately affects their morale. An autocratic ruler does not take suggestions from subordinates.
Rise of resentment- Over time, subordinates might get tired of following the rules and demand some form of independence.
Dependent on ruler- The subordinates are entirely dependent on the ruler which might threaten the stability in the leader’s absence.
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