Which government system involves rule by a single individual?

Which government system involves rule by a single individual?

• A. Oligarchy
• B. Democracy
• C. Monarchy
• D. Dictatorship

Answer: (C)

The answer is correct as monarchy is a system of government where a single individual, often known as a monarch, rules the state. Monarchies can be hereditary, where the position is passed down through family lines, or elective, but in essence, a monarch typically has significant authority over governance, often embodying the state or nation they govern. In a monarchy, the power can be absolute or constitutional. An absolute monarchy provides the monarch with nearly full control over the government and its functions, whereas a constitutional monarchy is limited by laws or a constitution, often sharing power with a legislative body. However, the key defining characteristic here is that there is a single ruler at the helm. Other systems like oligarchy and democracy involve power being distributed among multiple people or groups; in oligarchies, a small group holds power, while democracies allow for decision-making through majority rule, involving the participation of many citizens. A dictatorship, while also characterized by single-person rule, is typically marked by authoritarianism and lack of democratic processes, distinguishing it from monarchy, which may still retain traditional or lawful structures.

The answer is correct as monarchy is a system of government where a single individual, often known as a monarch, rules the state. Monarchies can be hereditary, where the position is passed down through family lines, or elective, but in essence, a monarch typically has significant authority over governance, often embodying the state or nation they govern.

In a monarchy, the power can be absolute or constitutional. An absolute monarchy provides the monarch with nearly full control over the government and its functions, whereas a constitutional monarchy is limited by laws or a constitution, often sharing power with a legislative body. However, the key defining characteristic here is that there is a single ruler at the helm.

Other systems like oligarchy and democracy involve power being distributed among multiple people or groups; in oligarchies, a small group holds power, while democracies allow for decision-making through majority rule, involving the participation of many citizens. A dictatorship, while also characterized by single-person rule, is typically marked by authoritarianism and lack of democratic processes, distinguishing it from monarchy, which may still retain traditional or lawful structures.