How did the statement by Prussian ruler Frederick the Great that a ruler is only "the first servant of the state" highlight Enlightenment ideas about government?

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1 December, 17:46

How did the statement by Prussian ruler Frederick the Great that a ruler is only "the first servant of the state" highlight Enlightenment ideas about government?

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Answers (2)

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Briana Holmes · Answer 1

The main way in which this quote highlights Enlightenment ideas about

government is that it calls into power the idea that no human--not even a sovereign king--is ultimately above the law of the land.

Bailee Christian · Answer 2

Answer

The main way in which this quote highlights Enlightenment ideas about

government is that it calls into power the idea that no one even the king is above the law of the land.

Explanation

The statement demonstrated Frederick's belief about the role of the king in a government. It showed that he believed the goal of the ruler was to serve and strengthen the country. The ruler was therefore a "servant" to the people by acting in the best interests of the country.

In this case he meant that the king should not misuse his powers and and go against the laws of the land. But should serve people without his own interests but for peoples interest.