Democracy the Best Form of Government

During the seventeenth and eighteenth century there were many forms of governments that reigned throughout the world. Some of these forms of government include Democracy, Absolutism, and Republics. Focusing in on just two of these governments, democracy and absolutism were most commonly used in Europe during these times. These two forms of government were completely different from each other, yet it is believed that democracy was most effective during that time era.

The definition of absolutism is the acceptance of or belief in absolute principals in political, philosophical, ethical or theological matters. Absolutism is a type of government in which one ruler, usually a king has total and absolute power. Many rulers used absolutism in their countries. They believed rulers should have complete control over the country. Prince Machiavelli believed the best way to rule was to be feared and thought that the only way people would listen to him was if he was mean and scary. He thought if he was nice and loved then the people would not fear him and end up taking advantage of him. In the book “The Prince,” by Machiavelli he states that it is necessary to rule in an absolute manner. He also states that it is better to be feared than loved. (Doc.1, lines 6-8). King James also believed absolutism was the way to go. He believed in divine right and that it was the only way to keep the country in order. He thought the kings were like gods and had the power to create or destroy anything that they thought was ineffective. (Doc.2, line 1,2). Another person who believed in absolutism was Louis XVI. He believed that only he had the right to deliberate and decide. (Doc.3, line 1).

In democracy people’s thoughts were heard and used in government. It was a form of government ruled by the people. This type of government was significant because it didn’t put to much rule in the King alone. During the age of enlightenment there were many philosophes that approved democracy. Some of these philosophes include Voltaire, Locke and Montesquieu. Voltaire was one of the most famous philosophers who defended all freedoms of the people especially freedom of speech. He said, “I may disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it.” He believed that people should have the right to think whatever they wanted and that the government and church should not control people’s thoughts. He also said that the laws equally protect all