Is liberal democracy always better than authoritarian rule?

There is no definitive answer to this question, as both forms of government have their advantages and disadvantages.

Liberal democracy is a form of government in which power is held by elected representatives who are accountable to the people. It is characterized by free and fair elections, the rule of law, and the protection of individual rights and freedoms. One advantage of liberal democracy is that it allows for the peaceful transfer of power and provides a way for people to hold their leaders accountable. It also allows for the expression of a wide range of opinions and encourages the participation of citizens in the political process.

Authoritarian rule, on the other hand, is characterized by the concentration of power in the hands of a single leader or group of leaders. This can be a more efficient form of government, as decisions can be made quickly without the need for consensus. However, authoritarian governments often lack accountability and can be prone to corruption and abuse of power. They may also suppress dissent and restrict individual freedoms.

Ultimately, the choice between liberal democracy and authoritarian rule depends on the specific context and the values of the people living under the respective systems.