absolutism

Definition

Doctrine of preordination; doctrine of absolute decrees; doctrine that God acts in an absolute manner.

Etymology

First attested in 1753 (in the theological sense); attested in 1830 in the political sense. From absolute + -ism, based after French absolutisme.

Example Sentences

• "The element of absolutism and prelacy was more controlling in the counsels of the rival corporation."
• "As absolutism became more consolidated in Europe, and particularly in France, such nonabsolutist states tended to define themselves in opposition to their absolutist rivals: hence, those features of their government which differed from absolutism tended to be given special prominence."
• "It was the absolutism of his ambition to be a perfect writer (and perhaps also the perfect son) that imperiled him."

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