Lesson 8 and 9 - Absolute Monarchy Assumptions

Question 1

Assumptions for Absolute Monarchy (refer to philosopher Niccollo Machiavelli)

Answer 1

Assumptions for an absolute monarchy might include Niccolò Machiavelli’s belief in the necessity of strong central authority and the ruler’s absolute power to maintain order and stability.

Question 2

Consideration for Absolute Monarchy

Answer 2

Consideration for an absolute monarchy involves ensuring the ruler’s authority is maintained through control and obedience, often through fear and force.

Question 3

Machiavelli views on fear vs. love

Answer 3

Machiavelli believed that a ruler should be feared rather than loved, as fear ensures obedience and control, while love can be fickle and easily lost.

Question 4

Machiavelli views on honesty of a Prince

Answer 4

Machiavelli suggested that a prince should appear honest but may need to deceive or manipulate others to maintain power and stability.

Question 5

The end justifies the means (what does this mean?)

Answer 5

This means that achieving a desirable outcome justifies the methods used, even if those methods are morally questionable or involve deceit or violence.

Question 6

When is an Absolute Monarchy contract void?

Answer 6

The contract of an absolute monarchy may become void if the ruler fails to maintain control or if the people revolt against oppressive rule.

Question 7

Strengths of Absolute Monarchy

Answer 7

Strengths of absolute monarchy include centralized authority, efficient decision-making, and stability in governance.

Question 8

Weaknesses of Absolute Monarchy

Answer 8

Weaknesses of absolute monarchy may include lack of accountability, potential for tyranny and abuse of power, and limited representation of diverse interests.

Question 9

Case Study: Louis XIV of France- what does it reveal about the Absolute Monarchy system?

Answer 9

Louis XIV’s reign in France exemplifies the strengths and weaknesses of absolute monarchy. While he centralized power and promoted stability through solid leadership, his rule also led to discontent among the people. Eventually, it contributed to social and political unrest, highlighting the risks of excessive authoritarianism and lack of checks on power.

Question 10

What is divine right and how was it used to justify the rule of the absolute monarchs?

Answer 10

Divine right is a political theory that suggests that a monarch’s authority to rule comes directly from God. This concept was used by absolute monarchs to justify their rule as being ordained by a higher power, thereby legitimizing their absolute authority over their subjects.