Authoritarianism refers to a set of philosophies, behaviours and social structures that encourage unconditional command and obedience and the fetishisation of social hierarchy.
Authoritarian States
Although all states can technically be considered authoritarian, 'authoritarian' states tend to refer to those with no or rigged elections, state censorship of the media, restrictions on internal freedom of movement and repression of individuals or social movements opposed to the states.
Authoritarian Personality
The 'Authoritarian Personality' refers to a personality trait discussed by several philosophers and psychologists that indicates a strong likelihood to either follow or be an authoritarian figure, or one who excessively commands and obeys. Authoritarian personality is correlated negatively with openness to new experience, support for individualism, support for gender equality and positively correlated with higher approval of violence against minorities or dissenters, prejudiced beliefs and a lack of critical thinking skills.