Enlightened Absolutism
Enlightened absolutists, such as Catherine the Great of Russia and Frederick the Great of Prussia, sought to rule as enlightened rulers by implementing some Enlightenment principles, such as religious tolerance, legal reform, and education. They believed in using their power to bring about positive social and administrative reforms while maintaining their authority as monarchs.
Enlightenment ideas emphasized reason, individual rights, and the concept of a social contract, advocating for government based on consent and the protection of citizens' liberties. In contrast, monarchs often justified their authority through divine right, believing their power was granted by God and that subjects owed them unquestioning loyalty. Enlightenment thinkers like Locke and Rousseau challenged this notion, arguing for the sovereignty of the people and the need for government accountability. This fundamental clash laid the groundwork for modern democratic principles, directly opposing absolute monarchical rule.
The signing of the Magna Carta
The Enlightenment was an intellectual movement in the 18th century that emphasized reason, science, and individual rights. In the American colonies, Enlightenment ideals influenced the push for independence from British rule, as thinkers like Thomas Jefferson and Benjamin Franklin drew upon these principles to justify their calls for liberty and self-governance. The Enlightenment also influenced the writing of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, which reflected its emphasis on natural rights and democratic principles.
The Dutch government is a Democracy which is technically still under monarchical rule.
Liberty, reason, nature, progress, and happiness
The Netherlands is under a Democratic government which is technically under a monarchical rule.
yes but only in a monarchical rule where power recides in only the ruling family
The Enlightenment Principles.
Enlightenment Thinkers
The Napoleonic Code, established in 1804, is a prominent example of a group of laws reflecting Enlightenment principles. It emphasized individual rights, equality before the law, and the secular nature of the legal system, promoting ideas such as civil liberties and the protection of property rights. The Code sought to eliminate feudal privileges and establish a clear legal framework, embodying the Enlightenment's focus on reason, justice, and the rule of law.
Monarchs were opposed to the Enlightenment because it challenged their absolute rule and authority, advocating for individual rights and democratic principles. The church was opposed to the Enlightenment because it promoted reason and science over religious beliefs, threatening its traditional influence and power over society.