HIST 1003 Chapter : ENLIGHTENMENT & ENLIGHTENED ABSOLUTISM
Document Summary
Joseph ii, 1765-1790: prussia: frederick ii (the great), 1740-1786, russia: catherine ii (the great), 1762-1796, summary. Enlightened absolutism (absolutism and enlightenment together become enlightened absolutism) *general principles: when absolute monarchs tried to rule according to the principles of the enlightenment. Got rid of idea of divine right : did not argue that god had given them the right to rule but that it was good for society that they rule, stressed secular nature of rule, religious toleration. People could worship as they please: abolition of jesuit order 1773 (restored 1815) Catholic kings convinced the pope to abolish them, said they were too backwards. Introduced policies that were reasonable : do what is good for society and do it by reason, so, got rid of traditions and customs that limited progress, encouraged economic growth and education. Do what is necessary to make things better.
