Rule by Force and Fear:
* Seizes power through illegitimate means: Often through violence, coups, or manipulating elections.
* Maintains power through intimidation and violence: Uses force, repression, and fear to suppress dissent and maintain control.
* Disregards laws and institutions: Acts above the law, often abolishing or manipulating existing legal systems for personal gain.
Abuse of Power:
* Suppression of individual rights: Restricts freedom of speech, assembly, religion, and the press.
* Control over information: Censors media, manipulates narratives, and spreads propaganda.
* Economic exploitation: Seizes control of the economy, enriching themselves and their inner circle.
* Use of torture and imprisonment: Punishes dissenters harshly, often through extrajudicial killings, imprisonment without trial, and torture.
Personal Traits:
* Narcissism and egomania: Exhibits an inflated sense of self-importance and believes they are above the law.
* Lack of empathy and compassion: Disregards the suffering of their subjects and prioritizes personal gain.
* Ruthlessness and cruelty: Uses violence and intimidation as tools to maintain power.
* Manipulative and deceptive: Masters of propaganda and deceit, often using charm and promises to gain support.
Examples of Tyrannical Rule:
* Hitler's Germany: Dictatorship based on racial supremacy and genocide.
* Stalin's Soviet Union: Authoritarian regime characterized by purges and control over every aspect of life.
* Pol Pot's Cambodia: Brutal regime responsible for the Cambodian genocide.
Important Note:
While these characteristics are common, the nature of tyranny can be nuanced and vary across different historical periods and societies. It's crucial to examine each case critically and understand the specific context.