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ABSOLUTISM REVIEW ? BIG IDEAS Absolutism Absolutism is based on the idea that a strong central ruler is needed to control society Bossuet argued for Divine Rights Absolutism (God gives rulers the power to govern) Thomas Hobbes argued that people give rulers authority to govern because humans are innately corrupt due to original sin Absolute rulers took power from the nobility to make themselves more powerful, helping the middle class Absolute rulers often fought wars to increase their territory Constitutionalism John Locke argued that there is a contract between governors and the governed (people) Rulers must respect people's natural rights (life, libery, and property). In return, people must respect ruler's laws.