Forms of government refer to the various ways in which a state or community is organized and governed. Common forms include democracy, where power is vested in the people, and autocracy, where a single entity holds absolute power. Each form has its own mechanisms for decision-making and authority. Understanding forms of government is crucial for grasping how societies function and how power dynamics play out. For instance, in a republic, elected representatives make decisions on behalf of the citizens, while in a monarchy, a king or queen may hold significant power, often inherited through family lineage.