Dictionary
A modern dictionary of Catholic terms, both common and obscure. Find accurate definitions of words and phrases.
DESPOTISM
In scholastic philosophy a rule that is exercised like that of a tyrant, either for the sake of the ruler or at least arbitrarily and without due regard for the rights of those governed. (Etym. Latin despoticus, imperious, despotic; from Greek despot_s, a master.)
All items in this dictionary are from Fr. John Hardon's Modern Catholic Dictionary, © Eternal Life. Used with permission.
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