How did the enlightenment ideas about the government differ from the views of the monarchs?

Enlightenment ideas emphasized reason, individual rights, and the concept of a social contract, advocating for government based on consent and the protection of citizens' liberties. In contrast, monarchs often justified their authority through divine right, believing their power was granted by God and that subjects owed them unquestioning loyalty. Enlightenment thinkers like Locke and Rousseau challenged this notion, arguing for the sovereignty of the people and the need for government accountability. This fundamental clash laid the groundwork for modern democratic principles, directly opposing absolute monarchical rule.