Section 3
Types of States
Book
Version 4
By Boundless
By Boundless
Boundless Sociology
Sociology
by Boundless
6 concepts
Types of States
States vary based on who holds power, who elects the empowered, and how authority is maintained.
Monarchy
A monarchy is a form of government in which supreme power is absolutely or nominally lodged with an individual, who is the head of state.
Oligarchy
An oligarchy is a form of government in which power effectively rests with a small elite segment of society.
Dictatorship and Totalitarianism
Dictatorships govern without consent of the people and in totalitarian dictatorships the power to govern extends to all aspects of life.
Democracy
Democracy is a form of government in which sovereignty is held by the majority of citizens within a country or a state.
New State Spaces
States are not necessarily the same as nations. New state spaces are redefining borders, and they may not be ruled by national governments.