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absolutism

noun

/ˈæbsəluːtɪzm/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of absolutism

A form of government in which a single ruler holds complete and total authority over the state, without any constitutional limitations.
"The absolutism of the monarchy was challenged during the revolution."

Detailed meaning of absolutism

This type of government is characterized by the centralization of power, the suppression of political opposition, and the absence of a separation of powers. Absolutism was most commonly associated with monarchies, where the king or queen held absolute power over the state. However, it can also refer to other forms of government in which a single leader or ruling party holds complete control over the government. This type of government is often criticized for lack of accountability and a tendency to abuse power.

Example sentences containing absolutism

1. Absolutism is a form of government characterized by unlimited power held by a single ruler.
2. The king's absolutism resulted in the suppression of individual rights.
3. Critics argue that absolutism leads to tyranny and oppression.
4. The philosophy of absolutism asserts the divine right of kings.
5. The absolutism of the monarchy was challenged by the growing demands for democracy.
6. The revolution aimed to overthrow the absolutism of the ruling class.

History and etymology of absolutism

The noun 'absolutism' traces its roots to the Latin word 'absolutus,' which means 'unrestricted' or 'unlimited.' In the context of governance, 'absolutism' emerged in the early modern period to describe a form of government where a single ruler, often a monarch or despot, holds absolute and unrestricted authority over the state without any constitutional limitations or checks on their power. The term emphasizes the idea of complete and total control, highlighting the ruler's autonomy and freedom from constraints. Absolutism as a concept gained prominence during various historical periods, such as the reign of Louis XIV in France, where the king's authority was centralized and unchecked. The etymology of 'absolutism' reflects the notion of unbounded, centralized power that characterizes this form of governance.

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Further usage examples of absolutism

1. Absolutism stifles dissent and discourages political participation.
2. The Enlightenment thinkers advocated for the abolition of absolutism.
3. The decline of absolutism paved the way for constitutional monarchies.
4. Absolutism in religion often leads to religious intolerance.
5. The ruler's absolutism was enforced through a network of loyal supporters.
6. The concept of individual liberties clashed with the principles of absolutism.
7. Absolutism concentrates power in the hands of a single authority figure.
8. The rise of constitutionalism challenged the prevailing absolutism.
9. The absolutism of the regime resulted in widespread censorship.
10. The philosopher argued against the moral justifications used to support absolutism.
11. Absolutism is often associated with autocratic rule.
12. The Enlightenment thinkers advocated for the separation of powers to counter absolutism.
13. The absolutism of the monarchy stifled social progress.
14. The overthrow of absolutism led to a period of political and social transformation.