Political Ideologies
Expert-defined terms from the Professional Certificate in Constitutional Law and Political Science course at London School of Business and Administration. Free to read, free to share, paired with a globally recognised certification pathway.
Absolute monarchy #
A political ideology in which a single person, the monarch, holds supreme power, not accountable to any other body. The monarch's decisions are considered law, and their authority is often seen as divinely ordained.
Anarchism #
A political ideology that advocates for the abolition of all government and the establishment of a society based on voluntary cooperation and mutual aid. Anarchists believe that hierarchy and authority are inherently oppressive and that individuals should be free to govern themselves.
Capitalism #
A political ideology that emphasizes the importance of individual property rights, free markets, and minimal government intervention in the economy. Capitalism is often associated with the idea of economic freedom, as individuals are free to produce and trade goods and services as they see fit.
Communism #
A political ideology that advocates for the collective ownership of the means of production and the distribution of goods and services according to need, not profit. Communism seeks to eliminate social classes and create a classless society in which everyone is equal.
Confederalism #
A political ideology that emphasizes the importance of decentralized decision-making and the autonomy of local communities. In a confederal system, power is divided between a central government and regional or local governments, which have significant control over their own affairs.
Constitutionalism #
A political ideology that emphasizes the importance of limiting government power through a written constitution. Constitutionalism seeks to protect individual rights and liberties by establishing clear rules and procedures for government action and limiting the government's ability to act outside of those rules.
Democracy #
A political ideology that emphasizes the importance of popular sovereignty and the equal participation of all citizens in the political process. Democracies are characterized by free and fair elections, the rule of law, and the protection of individual rights and freedoms.
Despotism #
A political ideology in which a single person or group holds absolute power, often through force or coercion. Despotism is characterized by a lack of political freedoms and the suppression of dissent.
Fascism #
A political ideology that emphasizes the importance of nationalism, militarism, and corporatism. Fascists believe in the supremacy of the state over the individual and often advocate for the suppression of political dissent and the persecution of marginalized groups.
Federalism #
A political ideology that emphasizes the division of power between a central government and regional or local governments. Federal systems often have a written constitution that outlines the powers and responsibilities of each level of government.
Feudalism #
A political ideology that emerged in the Middle Ages and was characterized by a hierarchical system of lords and vassals. Under feudalism, lords owned land and controlled the peasants who lived on that land, while vassals pledged loyalty to their lords in exchange for protection and land.
Liberalism #
A political ideology that emphasizes the importance of individual freedom, equality, and democracy. Liberals believe in the protection of individual rights and the rule of law, as well as the importance of free markets and minimal government intervention in the economy.
Monarchism #
A political ideology that supports the rule of a monarch or king. Monarchies can take many forms, from absolute monarchies in which the monarch holds total power to constitutional monarchies in which the monarch's power is limited by a constitution.
Nationalism #
A political ideology that emphasizes the importance of national identity and the supremacy of the nation-state. Nationalists often advocate for the protection of national sovereignty and the promotion of national interests.
Ochlocracy #
A political ideology characterized by mob rule and the suppression of individual rights and freedoms. Ochlocracy is often associated with violent protests and the breakdown of law and order.
Plutocracy #
A political ideology in which a small group of wealthy individuals holds significant political power. Plutocracies are often characterized by economic inequality and the suppression of political dissent.
Republicanism #
A political ideology that emphasizes the importance of popular sovereignty, the rule of law, and the protection of individual rights and freedoms. Republicans believe in the importance of separating powers between different branches of government and limiting the power of any one individual or group.
Socialism #
A political ideology that emphasizes the importance of collective ownership and democratic control of the means of production. Socialists believe in the redistribution of wealth and the elimination of economic inequality.
Statism #
A political ideology that emphasizes the importance of a strong central government and the supremacy of the state over the individual. Statists often advocate for the expansion of government power and the suppression of political dissent.
Theocracy #
A political ideology in which religious leaders hold significant political power. Theocracies are often characterized by the merging of religious and political institutions and the imposition of religious laws and norms on society.
Totalitarianism #
A political ideology characterized by the complete control of society by the state. Totalitarian regimes often use propaganda, censorship, and repression to maintain their power and suppress political dissent.
Transnationalism #
A political ideology that emphasizes the importance of cross-border cooperation and the establishment of international institutions to address global challenges. Transnationalists believe in the interdependence of nations and the importance of working together to promote peace, security, and prosperity.
Utilitarianism #
A political ideology that emphasizes the importance of achieving the greatest good for the greatest number of people. Utilitarians believe in making decisions based on the overall benefit to society, rather than individual interests or rights.
Virtue politics #
A political ideology that emphasizes the importance of moral character and virtue in political leadership. Virtue politicians often prioritize the common good over individual interests and strive to promote moral values and principles in their policies and actions.
Welfarism #
A political ideology that emphasizes the importance of government intervention to promote social welfare and reduce economic inequality. Welfarists believe in the provision of social services, such as healthcare, education, and housing, to ensure that all citizens have access to basic necessities and opportunities.