Final answer:
The enlightened despots embraced certain Enlightenment ideas but were not willing to relinquish their absolute power, maintaining a tight grip on their authoritative rule despite the new philosophies that advocated for the protection of natural rights and social contracts.
Step-by-step explanation:
The enlightened despots did adapt to some of the ways of the Enlightenment but would not give up absolute power. These rulers incorporated Enlightenment ideas such as rationalism, legal reforms, and tolerance to a degree, but they consistently maintained authoritative control over their states. Individuals like Frederick of Prussia epitomized this approach by inviting Enlightenment thinkers such as Voltaire to their courts, yet keeping the reins of governance firmly in their own hands.
The coexistence of Enlightenment ideals, with the practices of monarchy and even the institution of slavery, highlights the selective application of these progressive thoughts. Despite the philosophies espoused by thinkers like Locke, Rousseau, and Montesquieu that advocated for a social contract and the protection of natural rights, these influenced despots were often reluctant to implement democratic governance that would negate their power.
Ultimately, the Enlightenment sparked great social and political transformations, leading to significant events like the American and French Revolutions. The desire for liberté, égalité, and fraternité (liberty, equality, and brotherhood) alongside criticisms of entrenched privileges paved the way for monumental changes, although the full realization of Enlightenment principles was often compromised in the practical rule of enlightened despots.