What concept refers to the political system where the monarch's power is not absolute?

The correct answer is constitutionalism, which refers to a political system in which a monarch's powers are limited by a constitution or laws. This concept emphasizes the idea that the authority of the government is derived from and constrained by a body of fundamental law, ensuring that power is not concentrated in the hands of a single individual, but rather distributed and balanced among various branches of government or institutions.

In a constitutional framework, there are typically established processes and principles that govern the actions of the monarchy, allowing for checks and balances that prevent abuse of power. This contrasts with absolute monarchies, where the king or queen has total control over the government without any legal restrictions. Thus, constitutionalism promotes the rule of law and protects individual rights, making it a significant development in political philosophy and governance over time.