In this discussion, you will discuss the idea of whether absolute monarchy was doomed to fail.
Begin your discussion by addressing the following prompt:
Was the concept of absolute monarchy doomed to fail? Use details from the unit to support and explain your reasoning.
Post a detailed response to the discussion prompt. Then do the following:
Respond to a classmate who answered that yes, the concept of absolute monarchy was doomed to fail.
Respond to a classmate who answered that no, the concept of absolute monarchy was not doomed to fail
I believe that the concept of absolute monarchy was indeed doomed to fail. Throughout history, we have seen numerous examples of absolute monarchs abusing their power and facing resistance from their subjects. One of the key reasons why absolute monarchy was unsustainable is the lack of accountability and checks and balances in this form of government.
Absolute monarchs held all the power in their hands, making decisions without any input from the people they ruled over. This lack of representation often led to discontent among the population, resulting in uprisings, revolutions, and eventually the downfall of the monarchy. The French Revolution, for example, was fueled by the oppressive rule of King Louis XVI and his predecessors, leading to the establishment of a republic and the end of absolute monarchy in France.
Moreover, the idea of divine right – that monarchs were chosen by God and therefore above reproach – created a sense of entitlement and arrogance among rulers. This often led to irresponsible and tyrannical behavior, causing further resentment among the people. The failure of absolute monarchies to adapt to changing social, economic, and political conditions only hastened their demise.
In conclusion, the concept of absolute monarchy was unsustainable in the long run due to its inherent flaws – lack of accountability, abuse of power, and failure to adapt to changing circumstances. History has shown us that absolute monarchies eventually crumbled under the weight of their own shortcomings, paving the way for more democratic forms of government to take their place.
Response to classmate who answered "yes, the concept of absolute monarchy was doomed to fail":
I completely agree with your perspective on the doomed nature of absolute monarchy. The examples throughout history – such as the French Revolution, the English Civil War, and the fall of the Russian Tsar – clearly demonstrate the flaws and vulnerabilities of absolute monarchies. The lack of accountability and the unchecked power of monarchs ultimately led to their downfall. It is important for a government to have mechanisms in place for the peaceful transfer of power and for the representation of the people's interests, which absolute monarchies sorely lacked.
Response to classmate who answered "no, the concept of absolute monarchy was not doomed to fail":
I appreciate your viewpoint, but I respectfully disagree. While absolute monarchy may have worked in some instances for a period of time, it is clear that in the long run, the lack of accountability and unchecked power of monarchs created conditions ripe for abuse and eventual rebellion. The examples of the French Revolution, the English Civil War, and other uprisings against absolute monarchs showcase the inherent flaws in this form of government. In a rapidly changing world, monarchs who fail to adapt and share power with their subjects are bound to face resistance and downfall.