Fiveable
Fiveable

Cult of Reason

Definition

The Cult of Reason was an atheistic belief system established in France during the French Revolution. It rejected supernatural beliefs and focused instead on rational thought and human morality.

Analogy

Imagine if your school replaced its traditional mascot with "Logic" or "Reason". Instead of cheering for an animal or mythical creature at games, you'd be celebrating clear thinking and evidence-based decision making - that's kind-of what it was like when France embraced the Cult of Reason!

Related terms

Dechristianization: The campaign during Revolutionary France against Christian institutions and religious practices.

Enlightenment Era: An intellectual movement in Europe during 17th-19th centuries emphasizing reason, individualism, skepticism towards tradition & religion.

Robespierre Maximilien: A leading figure in the early stages of French revolution who later became leader of Committee Of Public Safety; he played key role promoting Cult Of Reason before his downfall & execution.

"Cult of Reason" appears in:



© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.

AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.


© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.

AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.