There any different types of governments throughout the world. The governance is of a nation is determined person or persons in power. In an attempt to understand human organization, sociologists classify these governments. This essay will explore three of those classifications. Those classifications are: an autocracy, absolute monarchy and an authoritarian oligarchy.

In an autocracy, complete political power is given to one person. An autocracy is also referred to as a dictatorship. The power of government is absolute (i.e., unlimited). The power is concentrated in the hands of the autocrat. The autocrat reserves the right to make the final decisions of government. One person makes the important decisions regarding public policy and its implementation. More recent forms of autocracy obtained the position through an armed takeover. Autocrats can gain victory in a popular election.

An absolute monarchy is much like an autocracy. However, an absolute monarch is usually hereditary. This person will inherit his title and office. They wield political power that is not effectively limited by law. The Monarch exercises full and unbridled ruling power.  They do not have to share authority with a legislative assembly. Absolute monarchy is the older and more traditional form of autocracy. The autocrat, though not a hereditary monarch, is still complete master and absolute ruler of the political society he leads and governs. The autocrat’s word is law. 

Authoritarian Oligarchy is characterized by absolute rule of the few. Unchecked, overriding political power belongs to a single cohesive elite. Governing power is concentrated in one small, closely-knit group that operates as a single unit. They govern as if its members were one person exercising unlimited power. The elite may have gained power through inheritance. They could also forcibly seize power, or win an election. One modern type of authoritarian oligarchy is the one-party state. The single official party is the only legally recognized party. It is the only political party permitted to exist and operate. The official party, is the sole provider of candidates for public office. It completely dominates the government and all other aspects of political life. This is the typical pattern of government in Communist-ruled societies. 

In short, these characteristics are used to classify governments. These classifications help social scientists understand human organization. This paper discussed: an autocracy, absolute monarchy and an authoritarian oligarchy. However, there are many other institutions besides the ones in this paper.

Reference :Constitutionalism, Dictatorship, PS201H-2C, https://www.proconservative.net/CUNAPolSci201PartTwoC.shtml.