Democracy: Rule by the people, where citizens have a direct or representative role in decision-

making.

Republic: A representative democracy where elected officials represent the interests of the
people.

Monarchy: Rule by a single person (monarch) or a royal family. It can be absolute or

constitutional.

Constitutional Monarchy: A form of government where a monarch serves as the head of state
within the parameters of a constitution.

Authoritarianism: Power is concentrated in the hands of a central authority, often with limited
political freedoms.

Totalitarianism: A highly centralized government with an all-encompassing power, often led by

a single party or leader.

Oligarchy: Rule by a small, privileged group.

Theocracy: Government where religious leaders or institutions hold political power.

Federalism: Power is divided between a central government and regional or state

governments.

Confederation: A loose alliance of states or territories with a weak central government.

Socialism: A system where the means of production, distribution, and exchange are owned or
regulated by the community as a whole.

Communism: A classless, stateless society where the means of production are commonly
owned.

Anarchy: Absence of government or a state of lawlessness.

Parliamentary System: Executive branch derives its legitimacy and political power from the
legislative branch.

Presidential System: The president is both the head of state and head of government, elected
independently of the legislature.

Aristocracy:
is a system of government or social structure in which power and authority are held by a
hereditary ruling class or a privileged elite based on noble lineage.
Key Characteristics:
● Power is often inherited.
● Social status is determined by birth.
● Leadership roles are reserved for those in the aristocratic class.

Meritocracy: is a system in which individuals advance or attain positions of power and

influence based on their demonstrated abilities, achievements, and merits rather than on social
class, wealth, or inherited privilege.
Key Characteristics:
● Advancement is based on merit, skills, and accomplishments.
● Individuals are rewarded based on their talents and contributions.
● Social mobility is theoretically open to anyone with merit.