Lesson 11 and 12 - Limited Constitutional Monarchy Flashcards
Assumptions for Limited Monarchy (refer to philosopher Montesquieu - or just copy from the chart)
INHERENT NATURE OF HUMANS: Smart, insecure, skeptical, equal
STATE OF NATURE: Disagreeing, doubting
FLAW IN STATE OF NATURE: Lack of decisions and actions
Consideration for Limited Constitutional Monarchy
Consideration for a limited constitutional monarchy involves ensuring that the monarch’s powers are defined and limited by a constitution, with provisions for accountability and oversight by other branches of government
History: Magna Carta - why signed?
He was pressured by his nobles, who revolted against him. They demanded that he sign the Magna Carta, who guaranteed certain rights to the nobles and limited some rights of the king.
Magna Carta of 1215 - historical significance and connection to today?
Shows us the transition from absolute monarchy to a limited monarchy ruling system.
Marked a significant shift towards limiting the monarchy’s power, establishing the principles of the CONSTITUTION, and protecting individual rights.
The Magna Carta laid down fundamental rights and principles that have influenced constitutional law in England and many other countries.
What is the difference between a Constitutional Monarch and a Ceremonial Monarch?
A ceremonial monarch has little to no direct political influence.
A constitutional monarch exercises their authority with the agreement of the constitution and is not alone when making decisions.
When is a Limited Constitutional Monarchy contract void?
If major challenges go unsolved or if too much political freedom is taken from the people, the contract is void.
OR
If people stop wanting to pay taxes to support other people
Strengths of Limited Constitutional Monarchy
Power is not in hands of one person - constitution limits the power of the monarch – or the monarch has no power (ceremonial monarch).
The Constitution is not easily changed.
Some constitutional monarchies may have an elected parliament and/or a prime minister which divides power further.
Weaknesses of Limited Constitutional Monarchy
Monarch may hold too little power (and do little to help govern)
Monarch may hold too much power (and undermine the purpose of a constitution)
Burden for Monarch to feel responsibility to serve the people on God’s Behalf (Divine Right)
Case Study: Abdullah II of Jordan- what do the rules of the Constitution there reveal about the Limited Constitutional Monarchy system?
The rules of the constitution in Jordan reveal a limited constitutional monarchy system where the king’s powers are DEFINED and constrained by law.
King Abdullah II’s role is largely CEREMONIAL, with executive authority vested in the prime minister and parliament. The constitution provides for the separation of powers, reflecting the and principles of a limited constitutional monarchy.
