The Pros And Cons Of Enlightened Absolutism

Enlightenment was the prevailing thought of this era which called for reform, but most believed that the best way to affect change would be through the ruler. Government officials who had the ear of the ruler would instruct them to reform their Government to improve human society. Which resulted in what historians called enlightened absolutism. The new ways of thinking had several effects on both the Monarchical Absolutism and those under its rule. For example, sweeping reforms happened in Prussia, Russia and Austria changing the quality of life for the people for the better. However, even Enlighted Absolutism has its limits as we with the persecution of the Jewish people.

In Prussia Frederick II acquired the province of Silesia, but