Jacques Bousset
Definition
Jacques Bousset was a French bishop and theologian, one of the most learned men of his time. He is best known for his theory of political absolutism, which held that kings are sovereign by divine right.
Analogy
Think of Jacques Bousset as a scriptwriter who writes a role for an actor (the king) in a movie. According to his script, the actor doesn't have to listen to anyone else because he's been given full authority by the director (God).
Related terms
Divine Right Theory: Doctrine that kings derive their authority from God, not from their subjects.
Absolutism: A political doctrine asserting that in monarchies, the monarch holds supreme power and is not legally bound by any other part of government.
Theology: The study of religious faith, practice, and experience; especially the study of God and God's relation to the world.
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