There are many different forms of government in our world. Each looks a little bit different. The
major difference lies in who is in control, but there are subtle differences that exist as well. Let’s
explore different categories and forms of government…
Direct Democracy In a direct democracy all citizens
have a chance to participate. The people directly control
and are responsible for the laws that govern their
society. All citizens can take initiative to create public
policy. An example of a direct democracy is ancient
Athens where they held assemblies to pass laws.
Representative Democracy Like direct democracy,
representative democracy is a government by the people.
Representative democracy is a form of government in which people
elect leaders to write and manage laws for the country. These leaders
are responsible for representing the will of the people and are elected at
regular intervals. They are also often bound by a Constitution.
Theocracy The word theocracy contains the Greek root “theo” which means “god.” A theocracy
is a rule by god or higher power. In a theocracy, religious leaders usually lead the society and
religious law is used to settle disputes and rule the people. The Islamic Republic of Iran is an
example of a modern theocracy.
Oligarchy The philosopher Aristotle originally used the word “oligarchy” to refer to rule by the
rich, but the literal definition of oligarchy is “rule by the few.” This means that a few people hold
all the power based on military strength (known as a military junta), family power (an
aristocracy), or religious force (a theocratic oligarchy). Oligarchies can often come from or lead
to other forms of government like monarchies and dictatorships.
Monarchy Kings, queens, princes, and princesses. We all pretend
when we’re little, but in a monarchy these roles are reality.
Monarchy is rule by a king, or monarch, and he usually gains his
power because his parents were rulers (monarchs) also. This
applies to queens, too! Some modern monarchies like Spain and
Japan have constitutions, while others do not.
Dictatorship In a dictatorship power is not inherited, but usually is acquired by force.
A dictator has absolute control over the lives of his citizens, like Kim Jong Il in North
Korea. Because a dictator has absolute power, opposition is usually suppressed and
people are prevented from voicing their opinions.
Democracy Any form of
government in which political power is
exercised by all citizens, either
directly or through their elected
representatives. Have you ever been
to vote with your parents?
Autocracy A form of government
in which political power is controlled
by one individual such as a
monarch, dictator, emperor, etc.
Who Rules? Name:
Reading, pg 1
Anarchy In this form of government no one is in charge! Sounds too good to be true? Think
about all the possible outcomes of having no government at all.
