Question

which statement best describes an absolute monarchy?
a government where the ruler has total control, often justified by divine right
a government in which the monarch’s power is limited by a constitution
a government in which citizens elect representatives to make decisions on their behalf
a government where the monarch implements enlightenment ideas but retains power

Explanation:

To determine the best description of an absolute monarchy, we analyze each option:

• The first option: An absolute monarchy is defined by a ruler having total, unrestricted power, often claiming divine right (e.g., Louis XIV of France).
• The second option describes a constitutional monarchy (power limited by a constitution).
• The third option describes a representative democracy (citizens elect representatives).
• The fourth option describes a form of monarchy with Enlightenment influences but not absolute (like some enlightened despotisms, but still not absolute monarchy).

So the first option matches the definition of absolute monarchy.

Answer:

a government where the ruler has total control, often justified by divine right