Question

Приведите примеры,когда русский правитель своими законами ограничивал собственную власть, ну или аргументы из литературы/истории,на тему "законы для того и даны,чтобы урезать власть сильнейшего"

Answer 1

Сразу вспоминается Манифест 17 октября 1905 г,  который был принят Николаем II, в связи со смутой и революционными настроениями. Манифест имел в себе зачатки конституции, ограничивал монархическую власть императора. 

Answer 2

Russian Rulers Limiting Their Own Power

Throughout Russian history, there have been instances where Russian rulers enacted laws or measures that aimed to limit their own power. These actions were often motivated by various factors, including the desire to maintain stability, consolidate authority, or respond to societal pressures. Here are a few examples:

1. The Great Reforms of Alexander II (1855-1881): One notable example of a Russian ruler limiting their own power is the series of reforms implemented by Tsar Alexander II in the mid-19th century. These reforms, known as the Great Reforms, aimed to modernize Russia and address some of the social and economic challenges facing the country. They included the emancipation of the serfs, the establishment of local self-government bodies (zemstvos), judicial reforms, and the expansion of education and civil liberties. These reforms were significant steps towards liberalizing the Russian political and social system, and they represented a deliberate effort by Alexander II to limit his own autocratic power.

2. The October Manifesto of 1905: In response to the 1905 Russian Revolution, Tsar Nicholas II issued the October Manifesto, which granted civil liberties and established the State Duma, an elected legislative body. The manifesto was a significant concession by the tsar, as it marked the first time in Russian history that an elected parliament was established. The creation of the State Duma aimed to share power with the people and limit the tsar's authority. However, it is important to note that the subsequent dissolution and manipulation of the Duma by Nicholas II undermined its effectiveness and limited its ability to challenge the autocratic rule [[2]].

3. The Provisional Government of 1917: Following the abdication of Nicholas II during the February Revolution of 1917, a Provisional Government was established in Russia. The Provisional Government aimed to transition Russia towards a constitutional monarchy and introduced a range of liberal reforms, including freedom of speech, assembly, and the press. It also initiated the process of drafting a new constitution. However, the Provisional Government faced numerous challenges, including the ongoing World War I, social unrest, and the rise of the Bolsheviks. Ultimately, the Provisional Government's inability to address these challenges and consolidate its power led to its downfall and the establishment of Soviet rule under the Bolsheviks [[3]].

4. The Perestroika Reforms of Mikhail Gorbachev (1985-1991): In the late 1980s, Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev implemented a series of reforms known as perestroika, which aimed to restructure and liberalize the Soviet political and economic system. These reforms included greater political openness (glasnost), decentralization of economic decision-making, and limited democratization. Gorbachev's intention was to revitalize the Soviet Union and address the systemic problems that had plagued the country. However, the reforms also inadvertently led to the erosion of central authority and contributed to the eventual dissolution of the Soviet Union [[4]].

The Concept of Laws to Limit the Power of the Strongest

The idea that laws are created to limit the power of the strongest is a recurring theme in literature and history. It reflects the belief that laws and regulations are necessary to prevent abuses of power and ensure a fair and just society. This concept can be found in various works of literature and philosophical writings.

1. Ancient Greece: In ancient Greece, the concept of laws to limit the power of the strongest was explored by philosophers such as Plato and Aristotle. Plato, in his work "The Republic," argued for the rule of law as a means to prevent the tyranny of the powerful. He believed that laws should be based on reason and justice, rather than the whims of individuals. Aristotle, in his work "Politics," also emphasized the importance of laws in preventing the concentration of power and ensuring the well-being of the community.

2. Enlightenment Thinkers: During the Enlightenment period, philosophers like John Locke and Montesquieu further developed the idea of laws as a means to limit the power of the strongest. John Locke, in his work "Two Treatises of Government," argued that the purpose of government is to protect the natural rights of individuals, and that laws should be established to prevent the abuse of power by those in authority. Montesquieu, in his work "The Spirit of the Laws," advocated for the separation of powers and the establishment of a system of checks and balances to prevent the concentration of power.

3. Modern Literature: The theme of laws to limit the power of the strongest is also explored in various works of modern literature. For example, George Orwell's dystopian novel "1984" depicts a totalitarian society where the ruling party uses laws and regulations to maintain absolute control over its citizens. Similarly, in Aldous Huxley's "Brave New World," laws and regulations are used to suppress individuality and maintain social stability.

In conclusion, throughout history, there have been instances where Russian rulers enacted laws or measures to limit their own power. Examples include the Great Reforms of Alexander II, the October Manifesto of 1905, the Provisional Government of 1917, and the perestroika reforms of Mikhail Gorbachev. Additionally, the concept of laws to limit the power of the strongest is a recurring theme in literature and history, reflecting the belief that laws are necessary to prevent abuses of power and ensure a fair and just society.