Enlightened despotism (also called benevolent despotism) referred to a leader's espousal of "Enlightenment ideas and principles" to enhance the leader's power.The concept originated during the Enlightenment period in the 18th and early 19th centuries.
An enlightened despot is a non-democratic or authoritarian leader who exercises their political power for the benefit of the people, rather than exclusively for themselves or elites.
"Enlightened" despots distinguished themselves from ordinary despots by claiming to rule for their subjects' well-being. An enlightened despot may focus government priorities on healthcare, education, nonviolent population control, or physical infrastructure. The leader may profess a commitment to peaceful relations and/or allow some democratic decision-making, such as public referenda, but would not propose reforms that undermined their sovereignty or disrupted the social order. John Stuart Mill stated, "Despotism is a legitimate mode of government in dealing with barbarians, provided the end be their improvement."
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Enlightened despotism (also called benevolent despotism) referred to a leader's espousal of "Enlightenment ideas and principles" to enhance the leader's power.The concept originated during the Enlightenment period in the 18th and early 19th centuries.
An enlightened despot is a non-democratic or authoritarian leader who exercises their political power for the benefit of the people, rather than exclusively for themselves or elites.
"Enlightened" despots distinguished themselves from ordinary despots by claiming to rule for their subjects' well-being. An enlightened despot may focus government priorities on healthcare, education, nonviolent population control, or physical infrastructure. The leader may profess a commitment to peaceful relations and/or allow some democratic decision-making, such as public referenda, but would not propose reforms that undermined their sovereignty or disrupted the social order. John Stuart Mill stated, "Despotism is a legitimate mode of government in dealing with barbarians, provided the end be their improvement."