The Enlightenment and Enlightened Absolutism Explained

Enlightenment and Enlightened Absolutism

The Enlightenment was an ideological and intellectual phenomenon centered on the pursuit of knowledge and the study of human reason. Often referred to as the Age of Reason, this movement flourished during the 18th century.

The Rise of Enlightened Despotism

Alongside the Enlightenment, enlightened despotism emerged as monarchs adopted intellectual reforms to consolidate power against the rising bourgeoisie. The French bourgeoisie, having gained wealth, sought material progress and placed their faith in reason and scientific development to challenge traditional power structures.

The Enlightenment promoted the encyclopedic movement, which aimed to concentrate all human knowledge into a single work. This intellectual shift influenced Western European countries and Russia, with Empress Catherine II serving as a primary representative in Russia.

Key Enlightened Despots

• Frederick II of Prussia
• Carlos III of Spain
• Louis XIV of France

These rulers operated under the philosophy: "Everything for the people, but without the people." Enlightened despotism finds its historical roots in Humanism, seeking to improve the economic situation, industry, commerce, and education to strengthen the state while maintaining absolute power.

Thinkers and Works of the Enlightenment

• John Locke (1632-1704): English philosopher who focused on public welfare and international relations.
• Montesquieu (1689-1755): Criticized absolutism in his seminal work, The Spirit of Laws.
• Voltaire (1694-1778): A prolific philosopher, playwright, and poet who championed individual freedom.
• Jean-Jacques Rousseau (1712-1778): Influential in social and pedagogical theory, most notably for The Social Contract.

Social Classes in the 18th Century

Society was divided into three distinct groups:

• The Nobility: Centered around the king; they enjoyed significant privileges and were exempt from taxes.
• The Clergy: Church members (bishops, priests, pastors) who also held privileges and paid no taxes.
• The Third Estate: Comprising the bourgeoisie, peasants, and artisans. This group held no privileges, paid all taxes, and supported the nobility and clergy through their labor. The bourgeoisie, in particular, represented a rising social sector.