Absolutism

Absolutism

Absolutism is a political ideology in which there is complete control over the government and absolute reign over the people and their lives by one person. Giving one person all of the power has advantages and disadvantages; but is truly the best form of rule. Many places today still use forms of absolutism: Qatar, United Arab Emirates, Vatican City, etc. In an absolute government, decisions are made significantly faster. The leader does not need to consult advisers to make decisions; the leader may receive some help, but makes the final decision. Absolute leaders can easily make long-term plans due to continuity of the government. It can also remove corrupt ministers, military commanders, etc. at any time. Even though Absolutism can be dangerous, in the right hands, it is the strongest form of government because debate and dispute are absent, corrupt or efficient officials can be dispelled , and decisions are made faster.

The purpose of a government is to protect its people, from outside danger and from each other. In absolutism, the leader and the government will do what is best for the country. Absolutism protects its people by producing a sufficient and powerful army while also balancing funds with other necessities. King Louis XIV chose royal officials to recruit soldiers, collect taxes, and enforce his other orders and policies. Intendants and other government jobs went to rich middle-class men. Louis formed an army with around 300,000 disciplined soldiers that would carry out his policies at in and out of the country. Absolutism helped Louis XIV and France have the most powerful army in Europe.

Government should play a major role in society. Many people would not get along and will eventually destroy each other and the environment around them with too much freedom. Absolutism prevented this by letting one leader determine every rule and every part of the society. In an absolute monarchy, the only person that can take or give away power from the monarch, is the monarch. King Louis XIV said, “L’état, c’est