What word literally means "to rule by oneself"?

The term that literally means "to rule by oneself" is derived from the Greek words "autos," meaning self, and "kratos," meaning power or rule. Therefore, the concept of autocracy refers to a system of governance in which one individual holds supreme authority and makes decisions without the input or consent of others.

In contrast, oligarchy refers to a form of government where power resides in the hands of a small group of individuals or families. Democracy is based on the principle of rule by the people, either directly or through elected representatives, emphasizing participation and representation. Monarchy involves rule by a king or queen, where the authority is often hereditary, rather than a single person's rule without any shared power. These differences clarify why autocracy is the correct answer, as it specifically indicates a singular ruling authority.