Absolutism in Europe leads to centralized power from "summary" of The Origins of Political Order by Francis Fukuyama
Absolutism in Europe was a form of government where the ruler held absolute power and authority over the state and its people. This system emerged in response to the chaos and violence that plagued Europe during the Middle Ages. The monarchs of Europe sought to consolidate their power and establish control over their territories in order to bring stability and order to their realms. The centralization of power under absolutism allowed the monarch to make decisions quickly and effectively, without having to consult with other branches of government or contend with competing sources of authority. The monarch was able to pass laws, levy taxes, and raise armies at will, creating a highly efficient and centralized system of governance. Absolutism was characterized by the presence of a strong bureaucracy and a professional army, both of which were loyal to the monarch and helped to enforce his will. The monarch relied on these institutions to carry out his policies and maintain order within the realm. The establishment of a centralized power structure enabled the monarch to exert control over all aspects of society, from the economy to the military to religion. Centralization of power under absolutism also had the effect of weakening traditional sources of authority, such as the nobility and the church. The monarch sought to eliminate any potential rivals to his power and ensure that all loyalty and allegiance was directed towards him alone. By concentrating power in his own hands, the monarch was able to diminish the influence of competing factions and establish himself as the supreme authority in the realm.- Absolutism in Europe led to the centralization of power in the hands of the monarch, allowing for efficient decision-making and effective governance. This system of government was characterized by the elimination of competing sources of authority and the establishment of a strong, centralized state. The legacy of absolutism can still be seen in modern European states, where centralized power remains a defining feature of governance.
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