Enlightened Absolutism

Enlightened Absolutism can be viewed as a streamed lined style of monarchical government that relies on a single branch of governmental decision making, which is founded on sound logical reason. Frederick the Great, who ruled the eastern German state of Prussia from 1740-1786, was a catalyst for this new style of government.

The enlightened absolutists such as Frederick justified their absolute authority by proclaiming themselves servants of the state or the people. Frederick believed that he had a special tie or ‘social contract’ with the people he ruled. “The citizens only granted pre-eminence to one of their fellows in return for serves which they expected from him”. Frederick believed in this partnership and believed it was his duty to protect the interest of his public and in doing so took a direct responsibility for every decision made regarding it. In serving the people Frederick was an advocate for social reform, which comprised of an important component of ...