Greek Orders, Enlightened Despotism, and Capitalism: A Historical Overview

Greek Architectural Orders and Historical Periods

Doric Order (Archaic Period)

Characterized by capitals with two aconca moldings and a convex one. The fluted shaft has a collar and lacks a base.

Ionic Order (Classical Period)

Distinguished by capitals with two spiral-shaped volutes. Columns are thinner and have checkered bases.

Corinthian Order (Hellenistic Period)

Features elaborate, baroque-style capitals often adorned with acanthus leaves.

Enlightened Despotism vs. Absolute Monarchy

Enlightened despotism, a variant of monarchy, aimed to streamline government, unify territories, and establish common institutions. Unlike absolute monarchies centered in Western Europe (e.g., France), enlightened despotism arose in countries with less developed economies to promote modernization.

Key Political Concepts

Nation

A territory with defined boundaries inhabited by a community sharing a common way of life.

Nation-State

A sovereign nation with the right to self-government.

Referendum

A vote by the people on a specific issue, independent of general elections.

Centralized State

Political and economic power concentrated in a single center.

Federal State

Power dispersed among regions, each with its own parliament, while still adhering to general laws of a central state.

Parliament

A building where elected political representatives meet in a democratic system.

Republic

A system of government without a monarch, often led by a president.

Parliamentary Monarchy

A monarchy in a democratic country where the monarch’s role is largely ceremonial after swearing allegiance to the constitution.

Capitalist Economic System

Based on economic liberalism (Adam Smith), this system emphasizes private property, free trade, and limited state intervention in the economy.

  • Current Capitalism
  • Popular Sovereignty
  • Freedom of Expression
  • Election Day Workers
  • Unions
  • Separation of Powers
  • State Intervention

Stratified Society: Transition from Feudalism to Capitalism

Nobility

A closed social group based on lineage, with some exceptions for those ennobled by the king. Comprised of the upper nobility (dominating the economy) and the lower nobility (with similar privileges but less wealth).

Clergy

Open to all social classes, with privileges similar to the nobility. Includes the higher clergy (similar power to the nobility) and the lower clergy (living similarly to peasants).

Third Estate

A diverse group with varying interests, including:
a) Landless peasants exploited by the manorial system.
b) Bourgeoisie: affluent urban classes.
c) Apprentices and other urban popular classes.
d) Marginalized individuals like bandits and beggars.

Key Figures and Events

First President of the United States: George Washington
Year of American Independence: 1775-1783

Universal Declaration of Human Rights

A proclamation declaring universal human rights as a common standard for all peoples and nations, promoting education and respect for these rights through national and international measures.

Absolute Monarchy

The king’s authority derives from God, granting absolute power and control over domestic and foreign policy without any checks or balances.

Capitalism

An economic system where individuals and companies produce and exchange goods and services through market transactions involving prices. Originating in Europe in the 16th century, it has various interpretations depending on the emphasis placed on political, cultural, or social characteristics.