Albright frequently references authoritarianism as the central threat to democracy, describing it as a system where power is concentrated in the hands of a few, with little or no checks on the authority of leaders. Throughout the book, authoritarianism is shown to rely on force, manipulation, and the suppression of individual freedoms to maintain control. This term functions as a key concept in the book, illustrating the mechanisms by which fascist and autocratic regimes undermine democratic institutions and civil liberties.

In the modern context, Albright introduces the concept of authoritarian capitalism, a system in which countries maintain capitalist economies while employing authoritarian political controls. She points to leaders like Putin and Xi Jinping as examples of how nations can embrace market-based economies while simultaneously curbing individual freedoms and suppressing dissent. This term is significant in illustrating the contemporary forms of governance that challenge the traditional dichotomy between democracy and dictatorship.

Albright explores the concept of charismatic leadership, often citing leaders like Mussolini, Hitler, and Chávez, who used personal magnetism to gain the trust and loyalty of their people. This term is essential to understanding how fascist leaders bypass traditional political processes by exploiting their image, emotions, and the disillusionment of the masses.