Oligarchy

• 27 Jan 2025

Source: TH

In his farewell address, the US President cautioned about the rising influence of an oligarchy in the US, where a small group of billionaires are increasingly shaping public policy. 

• Oligarchy: A government dominated by a small, influential group. Power may or may not be distributed equitably.  
  • It differs from democracy as only a few individuals make decisions. 

Other Different Types of Government:

Monarchy	It is a government ruled by a hereditary leader, such as a king or queen. It can be:  Absolute: The monarch has complete control over the government. Eg: Brunei, Eswatini and Oman.  Constitutional: The monarch's powers are limited by a constitution or laws. Eg: Belgium, Cambodia and Thailand.  Ceremonial: The monarch has symbolic or ceremonial duties with little political power. Eg: Britain
Theocracy	It is a system where the government is run by divine guidance or by officials (priests) who are considered divinely guided. Eg: Vatican City
Democratic and Republic	Democracy is a political system in which the people or their elected representatives govern themselves. Eg: India, US.  Republic Countries are a type of democracy where the head of state is elected, rather than being a monarch or hereditary ruler. Eg: India, France, and the US.
Anarchy	It means "no rule," or a state of lawlessness, where no governing authority exists.   Eg: As of 2025, no countries are recognized as true anarchist states. Historically, Somalia experienced a period from 1991 to 2006.
Dictatorship	A government led by a single ruler with complete control, often without regard for laws or constitutions. Eg: North Korea.

Read More: Constitutional Monarchy, Forms of Government, Commonwealth of Nations.