Authoritarian Socialism is a political and economic system where the state controls the means of production and distribution of goods, often with limited personal freedoms. In this system, the government typically enforces strict regulations and policies to achieve social and economic equality, prioritizing collective ownership over individual rights. This ideology contrasts with democratic socialism, where democratic processes are emphasized. Historical examples of Authoritarian Socialism include the regimes of Joseph Stalin in the Soviet Union and Mao Zedong in China, where the state played a dominant role in both the economy and the lives of citizens.