What is the definition of Absolutism?

Absolutism is defined as a political system where a single ruler holds total power and authority over the government, which aligns with the characteristics of absolute monarchs during the 17th and 18th centuries. This form of governance is marked by the concentration of political power in the hands of one individual, often justified by the belief in divine right, where the monarch's authority is seen as sanctioned by a higher power.

In an absolutist system, the ruler typically makes decisions without the need for legislative approval or consent from the governed, which allows for the efficient implementation of policies and control over the populace. This contrasts with forms of government that distribute power among various branches or emphasize collective decision-making, which are not representative of absolutism. The focus of absolutism is on centralized authority, rather than on individual liberties or communal governance.