Enlightened Absolutism

Definition

Enlightened Absolutism refers to a form of absolute monarchy that emerged in the 18th century, where rulers sought to apply Enlightenment principles of reason, progress, and tolerance while maintaining their absolute power. This approach allowed monarchs to implement reforms in administration, education, and society, all while retaining control over their states.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Enlightened absolutism was characterized by rulers who believed they could achieve progress for their states without relinquishing their power.
2. Key features included legal reforms, increased religious tolerance, and efforts to promote education and economic development.
3. Despite their Enlightenment-inspired policies, these monarchs often faced resistance from traditional institutions and nobility, which limited the scope of their reforms.
4. Enlightened absolutism highlighted the tension between absolute power and the emerging ideas of popular sovereignty and constitutionalism during the 18th century.
5. Many of these rulers corresponded with Enlightenment thinkers and sought their advice on governance while still prioritizing their own authority.

Review Questions

• How did Enlightened Absolutism reflect the principles of the Enlightenment while maintaining absolute power?
  • Enlightened Absolutism reflected Enlightenment principles by promoting reason, progress, and tolerance through reforms in governance and society. Monarchs like Frederick the Great and Catherine the Great implemented policies that encouraged education and legal rights while still exercising their absolute authority. This created a paradox where rulers embraced Enlightenment ideas to strengthen their rule rather than sharing power with their subjects.
• In what ways did the practices of enlightened absolutists challenge traditional forms of governance in Europe?
  • Practices of enlightened absolutists challenged traditional forms of governance by introducing reforms that emphasized meritocracy, religious tolerance, and centralized administration. These monarchs aimed to reduce the influence of feudal lords and enhance state efficiency, thereby transforming how power was exercised. However, this often led to conflicts with established nobility and traditional institutions that resisted change.
• Evaluate the long-term impact of Enlightened Absolutism on European political thought and state-building after 1815.
  • The long-term impact of Enlightened Absolutism on European political thought was significant as it laid the groundwork for later movements advocating for constitutionalism and democracy. The reforms initiated by these monarchs demonstrated the potential for enlightened governance while also revealing the limits of absolutism. This dual legacy contributed to debates about sovereignty and individual rights, influencing revolutionary movements across Europe in the 19th century and reshaping state-building efforts towards more participatory forms of government.

Related terms

Joseph II:

The Holy Roman Emperor known for his ambitious reform policies aimed at modernizing the Habsburg Empire, including religious tolerance and administrative efficiency.

Frederick the Great:

The King of Prussia who embraced Enlightenment ideas and implemented various reforms in military, government, and society while strengthening his royal authority.

Catherine the Great:

The Empress of Russia who expanded her empire and adopted Enlightenment ideals in her rule, particularly in education and law reform.