Question

Why were Enlightenment ideals never fully practiced by eighteenth-century rulers?

Answer 1

Enlightenment ideals ultimately lead to liberal republics. Nobility and rulers do not like their countries converting into liberal republics. It would put them out of their jobs. It would make them into common men. They would be just another member of the bourgeoisie. Even less, they would be without skills that allow them to compete with other bourgeois citizens.

Answer 2

Enlightenment ideals ultimately lead to liberal republics. that's a false dichotomy