Democracy

In a democracy, supreme political authority rests with the people. The people hold the sovereign power, and government is conducted only and with the consent of the people. A democracy can be either direct or indirect in form. A direct democracy, also called a pure democracy, exists where the will of the people is translated into public policy (law) directly by the people themselves, in mass meetings.

Dictatorship

autocracy - government in which a single person holds unlimited political power

oligarchy - government in which the power to rule is held by a small, usually self-appointed elite

All dictatorships are authoritarian. Those in power hold absolute and unchallengeable authority over the people. Modern dictatorships have tended to be totalitarian, as well. That is, they exercise complete power over nearly every aspect of human affairs. Their power embraces all matters of human concern.

Geographic Distribution of Power

unitary government - often described as a centralized government. All powers held by the government belong to a single, central agency

federal government - the powers of government are divided between a central government and several local governments

division of powers - powers of government are divided federally and locally

confederation - an alliance of independent states who group together for a common purpose

Relationship Between Legislative and Executive Branches

presidential government - separation of powers between the executive and the legislative branches of the government

parliamentary government - the executive is made up of the prime minister or premier, and that official's cabinet.