The Age of Enlightenment

Definition

The Age of Enlightenment was an intellectual and cultural movement in the 17th and 18th centuries that emphasized reason, individualism, and skepticism of traditional authority. This period fostered advancements in philosophy, science, and the arts, leading to significant changes in societal norms and values, particularly regarding governance, education, and human rights.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Age of Enlightenment is often associated with major thinkers such as Voltaire, Rousseau, and John Locke, who challenged traditional views on government and human rights.
2. This period saw the rise of scientific inquiry and rational thought, leading to advancements in various fields including physics, mathematics, and biology.
3. The Enlightenment laid the groundwork for modern democracies by promoting ideas about liberty, equality, and justice.
4. The movement encouraged the questioning of religious dogma and superstition, advocating for a separation of church and state.
5. Enlightenment ideas influenced revolutionary movements across the globe, including the American Revolution and the French Revolution.

Review Questions

• How did the Age of Enlightenment influence changes in political thought during its time?
  • The Age of Enlightenment significantly reshaped political thought by introducing concepts such as individual rights and government by consent. Philosophers like John Locke argued for the protection of life, liberty, and property, laying a foundation for modern democratic principles. This intellectual shift encouraged people to question absolute monarchy and pursue governance that reflected the will of the people.
• In what ways did Enlightenment thinkers challenge traditional authority, particularly in relation to religion?
  • Enlightenment thinkers challenged traditional authority by promoting reason over faith and advocating for secular governance. They questioned religious dogma and superstition, arguing for freedom of thought and expression. This critical perspective on religion led to calls for separation of church and state, influencing political frameworks that respect both individual belief systems and public policy.
• Evaluate the lasting impacts of the Age of Enlightenment on contemporary society and governance.
  • The lasting impacts of the Age of Enlightenment are profound in contemporary society, where principles like democracy, human rights, and secularism are widely embraced. The movement established a framework for critical thinking and scientific inquiry that continues to shape education and public discourse. Additionally, Enlightenment ideals inspire ongoing struggles for equality and justice globally, demonstrating their relevance in addressing modern social issues.

Related terms

Rationalism:

A philosophical belief that reason is the primary source of knowledge and that knowledge can be gained through intellectual deduction.

Empiricism:

A theory which states that knowledge comes only or primarily from sensory experience and emphasizes observation and experimentation.

Social Contract: A concept in political philosophy that explores the legitimacy of authority over individuals and the agreement among individuals to form a society and abide by its rules.