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Is there a country or society that has historically embraced absolutism as a governing principle?

Edwina Doey

There are several countries and societies that have historically embraced absolutism as a governing principle. One of the most prominent examples is France, where the monarchy held absolute power for centuries. The idea of "divine right" was used to justify the king's absolute authority, and the monarch was considered to be above the law. This system of government reached its peak during the reign of Louis XIV, who famously declared "I am the state."

Another example of a society that embraced absolutism is Russia. The tsars held absolute power and were considered to be ordained by God. They believed that their authority came from above and that they were responsible for the spiritual, moral, and physical well-being of their subjects. This system of government lasted until the Russian Revolution in 1917, when the monarchy was overthrown and replaced by a socialist government.

In addition to France and Russia, there were other countries that embraced absolutism at various times in history. Spain, for example, was ruled by the Habsburg dynasty in the 16th and 17th centuries, and the monarchs held absolute power over their subjects. The Ottoman Empire, which lasted from the 14th to the 20th century, was also an absolutist regime, with the sultan holding absolute power over his subjects.

The concept of absolutism as a governing principle is rooted in the belief that the monarch or ruler is divinely appointed and that their authority comes from God. This idea was popular in Europe during the Middle Ages and continued to be influential in the early modern period. However, the rise of Enlightenment thought in the 18th century challenged the notion of absolutism and advocated for a more democratic system of government.

In conclusion, there are several countries and societies that have historically embraced absolutism as a governing principle. France, Russia, Spain, and the Ottoman Empire are just a few examples of regimes that held absolute power over their subjects. While this system of government was popular in the past, it has largely been replaced by more democratic forms of governance. However, the legacy of absolutism still lingers in some countries, and its influence can still be seen in certain political ideologies and movements.