Enlightenment era

Definition

The Enlightenment era was an intellectual and philosophical movement in the 17th and 18th centuries that emphasized reason, individualism, and skepticism of traditional authority. This period was marked by a belief in progress and the power of human reason to improve society, leading to significant developments in politics, science, and culture.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Key Enlightenment thinkers included philosophers like Voltaire, John Locke, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, and Immanuel Kant, each contributing unique ideas about government, society, and human rights.
2. The movement encouraged the questioning of traditional authority, including monarchy and religious institutions, paving the way for democratic revolutions such as the American Revolution and the French Revolution.
3. Education became more accessible during the Enlightenment, with the establishment of public schools and an emphasis on literacy and critical thinking.
4. The scientific advancements during this time were influenced by Enlightenment principles, leading to a greater reliance on empirical evidence and the scientific method.
5. Cultural developments included neoclassical art and literature that reflected Enlightenment ideals of reason, clarity, and symmetry.

Review Questions

• How did the Enlightenment era influence political thought regarding governance and individual rights?
  • The Enlightenment era had a profound impact on political thought by promoting ideas about governance based on reason rather than tradition. Thinkers like John Locke argued for natural rights to life, liberty, and property, which influenced democratic principles. The emphasis on social contracts led to a shift in how governments were viewed; they were seen as deriving their authority from the consent of the governed rather than divine right or hereditary rule.
• Analyze how the Enlightenment contributed to societal changes in Europe during the 18th century.
  • The Enlightenment fostered significant societal changes in Europe by promoting ideals such as rational thought and skepticism towards established institutions. This led to increased calls for reform in education, governance, and social practices. As people began to challenge traditional norms, there was a push for civil liberties and greater participation in government. The emphasis on reason also stimulated public discourse through salons and pamphlets, creating a more informed citizenry.
• Evaluate the lasting impact of the Enlightenment era on modern Western societies.
  • The lasting impact of the Enlightenment era on modern Western societies can be seen in the foundational principles of democracy, human rights, and scientific inquiry. The idea that individuals possess inherent rights has influenced contemporary legal systems and political ideologies worldwide. Additionally, the emphasis on reason has led to advancements in science and philosophy that continue to shape modern thought. The Enlightenment's legacy is evident in ongoing movements advocating for social justice, equality, and rational discourse in public life.

Related terms

Rationalism: The belief that reason and logical thought are the primary sources of knowledge and truth, often contrasted with empiricism.

Social Contract: A political theory positing that individuals consent to form a society and government for mutual benefit, often associated with thinkers like Hobbes, Locke, and Rousseau.

Deism: A philosophical belief in a rational God who created the universe but does not intervene in human affairs, reflecting Enlightenment skepticism toward organized religion.