SS1 GOVERNMENT
2nd Term
MONARCHY
Definition:
Monarchy is a type of government by one individual. This individual may be a
king, queen or emperor.
Types:
(1) constitutional monarchy: the power of the monarch is regulated by the
constitution. E.g. Britain. (2) Absolute monarchy: in this type of monarchy, there is no
constitutional authority to check the powers of the monarch. E.g. Frederick the
Great of Russia (1743-1786) and Louis XIV
of France (1643-1715).
Features:(1)
the monarch owns the government (2) it is hereditary (3) it is a natural
institution where obedience to the monarch is seen as obedience to God
Merits:(1)
Unity of command (2) it is best suited for emergency situation since the
monarch needn’t consult others before decision and action. (3) all interests
are harmonized
Demerits: (1) it can lead to tyranny (2) the monarch
cannot be changed even if he is bad