Enlightenment Absolutism

Enlightenment Absolutism refers to a form of monarchy in the 18th century where rulers embraced Enlightenment ideas to strengthen their control while promoting reforms. Monarchs like Frederick the Great of Prussia and Catherine the Great of Russia sought to modernize their states by improving education, law, and administration. They believed in the idea of a "benevolent" ruler who would use their absolute power for the public good, combining autocracy with progressive ideas. This approach aimed to enhance their legitimacy and effectiveness, aligning traditional absolute rule with the principles of reason and progress advocated by Enlightenment thinkers.