What characterizes an authoritarian government?

An authoritarian government is characterized by a concentration of power in a single authority or a small group of leaders, with limited political pluralism and often no effective checks on that power. The correct choice highlights that while there may be a semblance of structure or administration, the powers of the governing body are typically strong and might face some informal challenges or pressures, but are not checked by robust democratic systems or institutions.

In authoritarian regimes, those in control often manipulate political systems to suppress dissent, limit freedoms such as speech and assembly, and maintain their hold on power without the same level of accountability or transparency that exists in democratic systems. The presence of some forces that could check power implies a degree of tension or struggle within the political landscape, which is typical in authoritarian contexts, albeit those checks are limited and often ineffective.

In contrast, choices that suggest an absence of power or a division of power among various leaders do not align with the nature of authoritarian governance, as these traits are more indicative of weak or fragmented governance structures rather than centralized authority. Similarly, governance by a single democratic party would imply elements of democratic process and competition, which contradicts the principles of authoritarian rule.