Which of the following is an example of an absolute monarchy? A. A state with a leader who is advised by members of the priestly class B. An empire that is governed by a long line of kings from the same family C. A kingdom with a ruler who controls all aspects of the lives of his subjects D. A city-state with a ruler who encourages his subjects to voice theil desires

Think of absolute monarchy as the ultimate power trip! In this governance style, a single ruler holds all the cards—think kings and queens who aren't just figureheads but the ultimate decision-makers. Historically, monarchs like Louis XIV of France famously embodied this, with the phrase "L'état, c'est moi" (I am the state) reflecting their non-negotiable authority. Fast forward to modern times, and while absolute monarchies are rare, they still exist! Countries like Saudi Arabia showcase this governance model, where a king has significant control over politics, law, and society. It's a fascinating balance of tradition and authority that shapes the lives of citizens in ways we don’t always see in democratic societies.