Ethnocracy

/ɛθˈnɑːkrəsi/ noun

Definition

A system of government where one ethnic group holds political and economic power over other ethnic groups living in the same territory.

Etymology

From ethno- (ethnic group) and -cracy (Greek 'kratia' meaning rule/power). The term emerged in late 20th-century political science to describe systems like apartheid South Africa.

Kelly Says

Ethnocracies are controversial because they concentrate power based on ethnicity rather than merit—many scholars argue they inevitably lead to injustice and conflict.

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