WEST-E Social Studies Practice Test

What type of government promotes extensive state authority yet does not eliminate all public institutions?

1. Totalitarian Government

2. Authoritarian Government

3. Socialism

4. Fascism

The correct answer is: Authoritarian Government

The correct answer, authoritarian government, is characterized by the concentration of power in a single authority or a small group, which exercises significant control over many aspects of life, including political, social, and economic institutions. An authoritarian government promotes extensive state authority but still allows for the existence of public institutions, such as schools, healthcare services, and even certain governmental bodies that may operate independently to some extent. In contrast to totalitarian regimes, where the state seeks complete control over every facet of life and often seeks to eliminate competing institutions entirely, authoritarian systems can coexist with some level of societal structure. This allows for a degree of public functioning, though it is significantly limited by the overarching state authority that maintains power through coercive means, censorship, and limited civil liberties. Regarding socialism, while it advocates for extensive state control over resources and wealth distribution, it typically aims for equality and public ownership rather than authoritarian governance. Fascism, while also authoritarian, often emphasizes nationalism and may seek to dismantle or tightly control existing public institutions to serve the state's interests, without the same public welfare focus found in some forms of socialism.