Age of Reason

Definition

The Age of Reason, also known as the Enlightenment, refers to a period in the 17th and 18th centuries characterized by an emphasis on reason, science, and intellectual exchange. This era valued humanism and individualism, promoting ideas that encouraged critical thinking and skepticism towards traditional authority, especially in religion and governance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Age of Reason laid the groundwork for modern democratic thought by promoting ideas about individual rights and government by consent.
2. Philosophers like John Locke and Thomas Jefferson were heavily influenced by Enlightenment ideals, advocating for life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
3. Benjamin Franklin was a key figure in the American Enlightenment, embodying its principles through his writings and scientific experiments.
4. This period challenged traditional religious views, encouraging a more personal understanding of faith that aligned with reason rather than dogma.
5. The Age of Reason contributed to significant advancements in science and technology, fostering a culture of inquiry that led to discoveries in various fields.

Review Questions

• How did the Age of Reason influence the development of democratic ideals in America?
  • The Age of Reason greatly influenced the development of democratic ideals in America by promoting concepts like individual rights and government based on consent. Enlightenment thinkers emphasized the importance of rational thought and human agency, which inspired leaders such as Thomas Jefferson to incorporate these ideas into foundational documents like the Declaration of Independence. This period encouraged citizens to question authority and seek self-governance, which were crucial elements in establishing a democratic society.
• Discuss Benjamin Franklin's contributions to the Age of Reason and how they reflect Enlightenment principles.
  • Benjamin Franklin's contributions to the Age of Reason were significant, as he exemplified the Enlightenment's emphasis on reason, innovation, and civic responsibility. His experiments with electricity not only advanced scientific understanding but also showcased the value placed on empirical evidence during this time. Additionally, his writings in 'Poor Richard's Almanack' highlighted practical wisdom and moral lessons that encouraged self-improvement and community engagement, mirroring the belief in human potential central to Enlightenment thought.
• Evaluate the lasting impact of the Age of Reason on contemporary views regarding religion and authority.
  • The lasting impact of the Age of Reason on contemporary views regarding religion and authority is profound. The movement introduced ideas that encouraged individuals to think critically about established beliefs and institutions. As a result, many people today advocate for a more personal approach to spirituality while questioning organized religion's authority. This critical perspective continues to shape modern discussions on ethics, governance, and personal freedom, highlighting the enduring legacy of Enlightenment principles in today's society.

Related terms

Rationalism: A philosophical belief that emphasizes reason as the primary source of knowledge, suggesting that truth can be discovered through rational thought rather than sensory experience.

Empiricism: A theory that asserts knowledge comes primarily from sensory experience, advocating for observation and experimentation as key methods of understanding the world.

Deism: A philosophical belief that acknowledges a creator or higher power but rejects organized religion and divine intervention in the world, aligning with the rationalist perspective of the Enlightenment.