Constitutional Governments

Definition

Constitutional governments are political systems where the authority of the government is defined and limited by a constitution, establishing a framework for governance and protecting individual rights. This form of government contrasts with absolute rule, as it often involves a separation of powers, checks and balances, and the rule of law, ensuring that the rights of citizens are safeguarded against arbitrary authority. Constitutional governments emerged as a response to the age of absolutism, promoting the idea that power should derive from the consent of the governed.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The emergence of constitutional governments during the 17th and 18th centuries marked a significant shift from monarchies based on divine right to systems based on popular sovereignty.
2. Key examples of constitutional governments include England after the Glorious Revolution, where constitutional monarchy was established, and the Netherlands with its republican form of governance.
3. Constitutional governments are characterized by written or unwritten constitutions that outline the structure and powers of government, as well as the rights of citizens.
4. The concept of constitutionalism emphasizes not just the existence of a constitution but also the importance of upholding the rule of law and protecting individual liberties.
5. The development of constitutional governments was influenced by Enlightenment thinkers like John Locke and Montesquieu, who argued for limited government and separation of powers.

Review Questions

• How did constitutional governments differentiate themselves from absolutist regimes during their emergence?
  • Constitutional governments distinguished themselves from absolutist regimes by implementing systems that limit the powers of rulers through legal frameworks. While absolutist monarchs held unchecked power often claimed through divine right, constitutional governments operated on principles that emphasized popular sovereignty, accountability, and the rule of law. This shift fostered political stability and promoted civil liberties, challenging traditional views on authority.
• In what ways did Enlightenment philosophers influence the establishment and development of constitutional governments?
  • Enlightenment philosophers such as John Locke and Montesquieu had a profound impact on the establishment and development of constitutional governments. Locke’s theories on natural rights and government by consent inspired ideas about individual liberties being enshrined in law. Montesquieu advocated for separation of powers within government to prevent tyranny. Their writings provided intellectual justification for constitutional frameworks, encouraging reform movements across Europe.
• Evaluate the lasting impacts of constitutional governments on modern political systems globally, particularly in relation to human rights and democracy.
  • The establishment of constitutional governments has had lasting impacts on modern political systems by laying foundational principles for human rights and democracy worldwide. By promoting the rule of law and individual freedoms, these governments have influenced numerous nations to adopt similar frameworks that protect civil liberties. The rise of democracy is closely linked to the ideals championed by constitutionalism, resulting in a global trend towards representative governance that values citizen participation and accountability in power structures.

Related terms

Absolutism:

A political system in which a single ruler or monarch holds absolute power, often justified by divine right, without legal or constitutional limitations.

Parliamentary System: A democratic governance model in which the executive branch derives its legitimacy from the legislature (parliament) and is accountable to it.

Bill of Rights:

A formal statement of the fundamental rights and privileges guaranteed to individuals by a constitution, limiting government power.