What is Authoritarianism (in practise)? In a real authoritarian regime – they would basically…

In a real authoritarian regime – they would basically force you into (doing) things against your rights or at least it messes you in your head about what is okay or not okay…

I would say long time ago, Singapore used to be considered authoritarian (under the premiership of Lee Kuan Yew)

For example in Singapore, 40-50 years ago, its illegal for men to have long hair – because its believed to be hooliganism. This is no longer an active law/restriction.

Even up to 30 years ago, people in Singapore are still wary about talking about politics or criticizing the govt…. today, its very normal to criticize the govt.

BUT, Singapore still have a lot of rules on things – but it usually isnt negative in term of impact on daily life, thus its no longer authoritarian.

So the line is drawn at "predictability"

To NOT be authoritarian: it needs to be very predictable where the line is about how to behave, what you can say, what are the things you can get arrested for.

So in a "Not Authoritarian" country, its entirely possible to exercise your rights to the maximum potential without running foul of the law – you can confidently do anything without going to jail.

However, in Authoritarian regimes, you can be arrested for very random things. Its entirely unpredictable what to expect at times. Sometimes even punished when you are clearly in the "right".

So its mainly on how clear the "line" between what is okay and what is not okay.

As long as the line is vague – like for example in China, its hard to tell when you get totally "disappeared" from social media/society, banned from using your payment apps, especially if you try to pursue some form of justice or human rights… for example, trying to get back unpaid salary or complain about some government mistakes…

… then its authoritarian.

In such a "vague line" society/country – anyone can suddenly run foul of law without knowing.

People can be arrested for corruption or any other "crimes" anytime, and there is respite in court, as the line is vague, the judgement can be anything "the powers to be" wants it to be.

USA for example, was falling into authoritarianism when judgements on Jan 6 rioters were overkill when compared to BLM rioters whom many were just let go without charge. Trump was convicted without sufficient evidences and indicted without made up dossets.

Authoritarianism is also setting its roots into UK with people getting arrested for social media posts, while Germany ponders "thought crimes" because one of the major party's "alleged ideology" is classed as "extremism".

If you find the laws to be unclear; that you need to tip toe around; constantly looking behind your back – worried about something you do MIGHT get you arrested or into trouble – you are in an authoritarism regime.

And for that I say, good luck.

First Published on: https://defensepoliticsasia.com/what-is-authoritarianism-in-practise/