Autocracy

From Postmodern Dictionary
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A system of government in which the instruments of government are controlled by a single individual, known variously as a pharaoh, an emperor, a king, an autocrat, a czar (or tsar), a Caesar (from which czar is derived), a premier (not to be confused with a "prime minister"), a first citizen (e.g., Napoleon), a dictator, a führer (German for "leader", suggesting that German titles are remarkably unpretentious, at least on the surface) or party "chairman" (when government is controlled by a single party). Invariably, autocracies are supported by a culture of idol worship, also known as a personality cult, in which a single person, the autocrat, is ascribed divine powers.