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In its classical form, despotism is a state in which a single individual (the despot) holds all the power and authority embodying the state, and everyone else is a subsidiary person. This form of despotism was common in the first forms of statehood and civilization; the Pharaoh of Egypt is an exemplary figure of the classical despot.
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enlightened despotism, form of government in the 18th century in which absolute monarchs pursued legal, social, and educational reforms inspired by the Enlightenment. Among the most prominent enlightened despots were Frederick II (the Great), Peter I (the Great), Catherine II (the Great), Maria Theresa, Joseph II, and Leopold II.
- The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica
Apr 23, 2024 · Key Features of Despotism. 1. Centralized Power: Despotism is characterized by the concentration of power in the hands of a single individual or a small group. The ruler or leader holds absolute authority and makes decisions without any checks or balances. 2.
2 days ago · Western theorists have used despotism as a limiting case, a reductio ad absurdum of the concentration of power. To Burke it was ‘the simplest form of government’, the domination of the will of a single man. To Bentham it was an evil form, the inverse of the evil of anarchy.
- Historical Roots of Despotism
- Psychological Factors Behind Despotic Leaders
- Societal Factors Contributing to Despotism
- Conclusion
- Related Terms
Throughout history, there have been numerous examples of despotic regimes that have wielded absolute power over their subjects. Ancient Egypt under the rule of the pharaohs, the Roman Empire under Julius Caesar and his successors, and Imperial China under the Qin andHan dynastiesare just a few examples. Despite their differences in culture and geog...
Research into the personality traits and behaviors commonly found in despotic leaders has identified a number of key factors that contribute to their desire for power and control. One such factor is narcissism– many despots exhibit an inflated sense of self-importance, a lack of empathy for others, and a preoccupation with their own success and sta...
Social inequality is a key factor that can create conditions ripe for despotism. When there is a large gap between the rich and poor, or when certain groups are systematically excluded from political power, it can create resentment and instability in society. Despotic leaders may exploit these divisions by positioning themselves as champions of the...
In conclusion, this article has explored the psychological and societal factors that contribute to the emergence of despotic leaders. We have seen how traits like narcissism and aggression can lead individuals to seek out positions of power, and how societal factors like social inequality and political polarization can create conditions ripe for au...
Monarchy – A form of government in which a single person (the monarch) has absolute power over the government and society. Autocrat – A ruler who has absolute power over a country. Dictator – A ruler with absolute power over a country, typically acquired through force or coercion. Tyranny – A form of government in which a single ruler has absolute ...
The meaning of DESPOTISM is oppressive absolute power and authority exerted by government : rule by a despot. How to use despotism in a sentence.
Learning Objective. Define enlightened despotism and provide examples. Key Points. Enlightened despots held that royal power emanated not from divine right but from a social contract whereby a despot was entrusted with the power to govern in lieu of any other governments.
