Which of the following best describes autocracy?

Autocracy is best defined as a system of governance where one individual possesses complete and absolute power over the state. This concentration of authority means that decisions are made unilaterally, without the need for consent or consultation from others, which distinguishes autocracy from other forms of governance, such as democracy or oligarchy, where power is distributed among multiple entities or individuals. In an autocratic system, the leader has the final say in all matters of policy, law, and administration, making it an absolute form of rule characterized by a lack of political pluralism and limited individual freedoms. This definition aligns precisely with the concept of rule by a single authority, highlighting the key features of autocratic governance.