Two points are of philosophical interest here. One is the necessity of government exercising coercive force. (On this subject, see Anarchy.) The other point is the classification of the four major forms of government. (On this subject, see Democracy.)

Of these forms, the most thoroughly unjust is tyrannical despotism. The most thoroughly just is socialist democracy. Between these two are benevolent despotism and constitutional government, the latter of which is oligarchical rather than democratic.

Government and Constitution

What Is Government and When Is Anyone Governed?

The Necessity of Government

War and Peace

The Modes and Forms of Government

The Mixed Regime

Resistance to Government

The Idea of Civil Police

A Vision of the Future (1984), Chapter 6.

Democracy and Citizenship

Why Did It Take So Long?

The Only Perfectly Just Form of Government

The Conflict Between Justice and Expediency

Will Democracy Survive, Spread, and Prosper?

A Vision of the Future (1984), Chapter 7.

Recommended Readings on Politics: Man and the State

Adapted from
Adler's Philosophical Dictionary (1995)
and
Great Ideas from the Great Books (1963)
by Mortimer J. Adler