Question

Define absolutism

Answer 1

Absolutism is a political doctrine and practice that holds that a single ruler or authority has absolute power over the government and is not bound by any laws or constitution. This form of governance centralizes authority in a monarch or sovereign, who exercises complete control over the state and its affairs, including the law, economy, and military.

Historically, absolutism is often associated with the period of absolute monarchies in Europe, particularly in the 17th and 18th centuries, when monarchs like Louis XIV of France famously declared, "L'état, c'est moi" ("I am the state"). Under absolutism, the ruler typically claims divine right or hereditary legitimacy, justifying their singular rule as sanctioned by God or established by tradition.

Absolutism differs from constitutionalism, where the authority of the government is limited by law and the rights of individuals are constitutionally protected. Many absolutist regimes eventually faced challenges leading to reforms, revolutions, or the establishment of constitutional systems, as demands for political participation and individual rights grew.