Sample Material of UPSC Mains Philosophy (Optional) Study Kit
Topic: Socio Political Philosophy (Monarchy, Theocracy and Democracy)
Monarchy
The word monarchy has been device from the latin word mono and archia’ mono means one and ‘archia’ means rule. Therefore literally monarchy means rule of one person. Herodobus and some ancient great poets define Monarchy as the mile of one person. Aristotle while making the classification of governments define monarchy as the rule of one person for the welfare of society. Bodin and Hobbes define monarchy in terms of sovereignty according to them when sovereignty is vested in one person it is monarchy.
But today monarchy has a much specific meaning. Monarchy is a particular type of person rule which is hereditary in nature. There are three features of monarchy 1) It is the hereditary rule of one person. 2) Supreme authority is vested in the monarch either really or symbolically. 3) Divinity, which means monarchy associates itself with go or some divine authority.
Types of Monarchy
1) Absolute
2) Limited or constitutional Monarchy
In absolute monarchy there is no limitation on the powers of the monarch. Executive, legislative and Judiciary powers are concentrated in the monarch. Therefore there is no scope for seperation of powers. In absolute monarchy, the monarch is head of the state as well as the government—Monarch reigns as well rules In constitutional monarchy, the monarch is only the symbolic head. Instead of concentration of power in actual practice, powers are separated. In constitutional monarchy the king is only the nominal head and his powers are exercised by some one else therefore in constitutional monarchy the monarch is only the head of state but not the head of government. He reigns but does not rule Britain is today the most important example of constitutional monarchy. Regarding British Monarchy it is said that, the king can do no wrong”
