Cameralism

/ˈkæm.ər.ə.lɪz.əm/ noun

Definition

A system of government administration focused on increasing a ruler's wealth and power through careful financial and economic management.

Etymology

From German 'Kameralismus,' derived from 'Kammer' (chamber/treasury). Developed in 17th-18th century German-speaking states as a theory of governance centered on the royal treasury.

Kelly Says

Cameralism is why German princes had the most boring-sounding but ruthlessly efficient governments in Europe—they literally turned economic management into an art form, centuries before MBA programs!

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