18th Century Enlightenment Definitions

Which political system is defined as one in which the king holds all powers including executive and legislative?

What was the primary goal of Enlightened despotism?

What does the term 'physiocracy' refer to in economic theory?

Which of the following concepts is most closely associated with the idea of a balanced power among European nations?

Which cultural movement is characterized by a reliance on reason and criticism of traditional authority?

What is the main characteristic of the Ancien Regime?

Which of the following economic theories posits that the wealth of a nation is derived solely from its land?

How did Enlightened despotism seek to address the ideas of the Enlightenment?

What is the primary focus of mercantilism in economic theory?

Which concept describes a situation where no single European country holds overwhelming power over others?

18th Century Enlightenment Definitions

Ancien Régime: A political system characterized by absolutism, a strict social hierarchy, and significant religious influence, used by French revolutionaries. This term referred to the pre-revolutionary French political system.
Enlightenment: A cultural movement emphasizing reason, human progress, and critiques of the old regime. This movement valued reason and believed in human potential.
Encyclopedia: A 28-volume collection of knowledge edited by Diderot and D'Alembert, compiled between 1751 and 1772. This work encompassed the knowledge of its time.
Absolute Monarchy: A political system where the king held all executive, legislative, judicial, military, and economic power. This concentrated power in the hands of the monarch.
Enlightened Despotism: A political system aiming to combine absolutist rule with progressive Enlightenment ideas. This tried to marry absolute power with enlightened thought.
European Supremacy: The dominance of one European nation over other European powers. This described situations where one nation held greater power in Europe.
Balance of Power: A state of European politics ensuring no single nation holds overwhelming influence. This concept sought to prevent any one nation from dominating the continent.
Physiocracy: An economic theory asserting national wealth is solely derived from land. This theory focused on land as the main source of wealth.
Mercantilism: An economic philosophy believing national wealth arises from accumulating precious metals through trade. This economic system focused on amassing wealth through trade.
Liberalism: An economic theory emphasizing individual work for maximum gain as the fundamental source of wealth. This theory stressed individual initiative and profit as drivers of prosperity.

Test your knowledge of key concepts from the 18th century Enlightenment era. This quiz covers essential definitions such as Ancien Régime, Enlightenment, and Absolute Monarchy, exploring political, economic, and cultural ideas that shaped modern thought. Engage with pivotal terms that influenced revolutions and reforms in Europe.