"Authoritarian capitalism" refers to a political and economic system where a central authority maintains strict control over political power while supporting capitalist economic practices. Unlike traditional capitalism that emphasizes individual freedoms, this model often restricts political dissent and curtails civil liberties. Countries like China exemplify this system, where the government dictates economic direction while suppressing opposition. The fusion of authoritarianism and capitalism can lead to significant economic growth, but often at the expense of democratic values and human rights. This duality poses challenges for global governance and diplomatic relations.