Final answer:
Monarchies and representative governments have been shaped by various societal factors throughout history. Kings often feared the latter as it could diminish their hereditary authority. The development process involved struggles between conservative traditions and liberal Enlightenment ideals advocating for limited government control.
Step-by-step explanation:
Throughout history, the evolution of government systems has been influenced by changing populations, mindsets, and societal needs. Monarchies and representative governments like republics and democracies reflect different approaches to governance. Monarchs usually inherit power and may not always hold absolute power, particularly in constitutional monarchies where legislatures also play a role. On the other hand, representative governments generally involve elected officials who are chosen to represent the citizens’ interests and concerns. Over time, Western society has come to value democracy for its ability to protect the rights and interests of the majority, though it has its critics who fear majority rule can threaten minority rights and personal freedoms.
Essentially, most European kings feared representative government because it could potentially limit their hereditary power or divine right to rule, and give more power to elected officials and the general populace. This was especially relevant during eras of conservative thought when the idea of tradition and social hierarchy were held in high esteem, and liberal ideas of the Enlightenment called for freedom from government interference and protection of individual rights, often within a constitutional monarchy framework.