absoluuttismia

Absolutism is a political and historical concept that refers to a form of government in which a monarch or dictator holds absolute power, typically without effective constitutional limitations, or in which a single entity holds ultimate sovereignty. The term is often used to describe the political systems of certain European monarchies during the 17th and 18th centuries, such as those of France, Spain, and Russia, where the monarch's authority was virtually unchecked.

The origins of absolutism can be traced back to the late medieval period, with the rise of centralized monarchies and the concentration of power in the hands of a single ruler. However, the concept of absolutism as we understand it today emerged during the 17th century, as a reaction to the political and religious turmoil of the preceding centuries. The most prominent proponents of absolutism were the French monarchs Louis XIII and Louis XIV, who sought to establish a strong central government and suppress internal dissent.

Absolutism is characterized by a concentration of power in the hands of a single ruler, who is often supported by a powerful bureaucracy and military. The monarch's authority is typically absolute, with no effective checks and balances in place to limit their power. This concentration of power can lead to both positive and negative consequences, as the monarch may be able to implement policies that promote economic growth and stability, but may also become tyrannical and oppressive.

Absolutism is often contrasted with other forms of government, such as constitutional monarchy, where the monarch's power is limited by a constitution or other legal framework, and democracy, where power is held by the people through elected representatives. While absolutism has been criticized for its potential for tyranny and oppression, it has also been praised for its ability to promote stability and order in a time of political and religious turmoil.