Authoritarianism is a political system characterized by the concentration of power in a single authority or a small group, often limiting individual freedoms and political pluralism. In such regimes, the government maintains strict control over many aspects of life, including the media, public discourse, and civil society, often using coercion to suppress dissent. Historically, authoritarianism has manifested in various forms, from military dictatorships to one-party states. Notable examples include Nazi Germany and Soviet Union, where leaders exercised absolute power, leading to significant human rights violations and societal repression.