What does the term 'Enlightened Despotism' refer to?

Enlightened Despotism refers to a form of absolute monarchy in which the ruler implements ideas and reforms inspired by the Enlightenment, such as legal rights, education, and economic improvements, all while maintaining their ultimate authority and control over the state. The term highlights the paradox of enlightened rulers who, despite embracing reason and progress, do not relinquish their autocratic power. Monarchs like Frederick the Great of Prussia and Joseph II of Austria are often cited as examples of enlightened despots, as they introduced significant reforms aimed at modernizing their states and improving the welfare of their subjects without giving up their centralized authority.

The other options do not accurately capture this concept. A form of democratic government suggests shared power and popular sovereignty, which contradicts the notion of despotism. A relationship of shared power with the church implies a division of authority that is not characteristic of enlightened despots, who typically aimed to centralize power. Lastly, a method of public consultation suggests a participatory approach to governance that is inconsistent with the nature of despotism, where decisions are ultimately made by a single ruler without the need for public input.