Which government system involves rule by a single individual?

The answer is correct as monarchy is a system of government where a single individual, often known as a monarch, rules the state. Monarchies can be hereditary, where the position is passed down through family lines, or elective, but in essence, a monarch typically has significant authority over governance, often embodying the state or nation they govern.

In a monarchy, the power can be absolute or constitutional. An absolute monarchy provides the monarch with nearly full control over the government and its functions, whereas a constitutional monarchy is limited by laws or a constitution, often sharing power with a legislative body. However, the key defining characteristic here is that there is a single ruler at the helm.

Other systems like oligarchy and democracy involve power being distributed among multiple people or groups; in oligarchies, a small group holds power, while democracies allow for decision-making through majority rule, involving the participation of many citizens. A dictatorship, while also characterized by single-person rule, is typically marked by authoritarianism and lack of democratic processes, distinguishing it from monarchy, which may still retain traditional or lawful structures.