The political philosophy of the Egyptian government evolved significantly through its three major dynastic periods: the Old Kingdom, the Middle Kingdom, and the New Kingdom. Here's a brief overview of each period's political philosophy:
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Old Kingdom (c. 2686–2181 BCE): This period is characterized by the concept of absolute monarchy, where the Pharaoh was considered a divine ruler, embodying both religious and political authority. The belief in the pharaoh's divine right was central, as he was viewed as a mediator between the gods and the people. This absolute power justified extensive state projects, such as pyramid construction, which demonstrated the pharaoh's control and connection to the divine.
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Middle Kingdom (c. 2055–1650 BCE): During the Middle Kingdom, the political philosophy shifted slightly towards a more nuanced governance model, although absolute monarchy still prevailed. The pharaoh was seen as a "shepherd" of the people, emphasizing a sense of responsibility towards their welfare. This period saw the introduction of more bureaucratic governance and an emphasis on justice and order, with laws to help protect the citizens and maintain societal stability.
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New Kingdom (c. 1550–1070 BCE): The New Kingdom continued the tradition of absolute monarchy, but it also saw the rise of imperialism, with the Pharaohs expanding their territories and influence. The political philosophy in this period began to incorporate more elements of militarism and expansionist policies, with pharaohs like Ramses II focusing on military conquests. Moreover, this era emphasized diplomacy and trade as essential components of governance, reflecting a blend of traditional absolute authority with aspects of capitalism through economic expansion and foreign trade.
Overall, while the core principle of absolute monarchy defined the political structure throughout all three dynastic periods, the emphasis on governance and the relationship between the ruler and the ruled evolved, adapting to societal needs and external pressures.