Module 5:
Types of Political Systems (Regimes)

Module 5 explains the main types of political regimes, focusing on how power is gained, used, limited, and transferred. It begins by distinguishing the state, government, and regime, then defines a regime as the deeper system of rule beneath changing leaders or administrations. The module explains that democracy is a system in which power is supposed to come from the people through meaningful political competition, freedom, accountability, and the rule of law.

The module then compares democracy with authoritarianism, totalitarianism, and hybrid regimes. It shows that authoritarian systems concentrate power and restrict opposition, while totalitarian systems go further by trying to control nearly every part of life. Hybrid regimes fall in the gray zone between democracy and dictatorship, often keeping democratic institutions in appearance while weakening them in practice. Overall, the module argues that understanding regime types helps reveal how political power actually works beneath official titles, constitutions, and elections.