Which of these is a characteristic of a dictatorship?
A. A system of checks and balances distributes government power.
B. Individual freedoms and rights are protected by the consitution.
C. Courts may override decisions made by government leaders.
D. Government leaders rule with absolute authority.
D. Government leaders rule with absolute authority.
The characteristic of a dictatorship is D. Government leaders rule with absolute authority.
The correct answer is D. Government leaders rule with absolute authority.
In order to find the answer, we need to understand what a dictatorship is. A dictatorship is a form of government in which a single individual or a small group holds absolute power and authority. Dictators often have complete control over all aspects of society, including the government, military, economy, and the lives of the citizens.
To determine which of the given options best represents a characteristic of a dictatorship, we can analyze each option:
A. A system of checks and balances distributes government power.
This option describes a characteristic of a democratic government, in which power is divided among different branches of government to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful. This is not a characteristic of a dictatorship.
B. Individual freedoms and rights are protected by the constitution.
Dictatorships typically do not protect individual freedoms and rights. In fact, personal liberties and human rights can be heavily restricted or even nonexistent in such regimes. Therefore, this option is not characteristic of a dictatorship.
C. Courts may override decisions made by government leaders.
In a dictatorship, government leaders hold absolute authority, meaning their decisions are final and cannot be overturned by other branches, including the courts. This option is not characteristic of a dictatorship.
D. Government leaders rule with absolute authority.
This option accurately describes a characteristic of a dictatorship. In this type of government, leaders have unchecked and unlimited power to make decisions and enforce their rule.
Therefore, the correct answer is D. Government leaders rule with absolute authority.