Enlightenment
Definition
The Enlightenment was an intellectual and philosophical movement that dominated the world of ideas in Europe during the 17th to 19th century. It emphasized reason, analysis, and individualism rather than traditional lines of authority.
Analogy
Think of the Enlightenment as a massive group study session where everyone started questioning their textbooks (or traditional beliefs) and began thinking for themselves, using logic and reasoning.
Related terms
Rationalism: A belief or theory that opinions and actions should be based on reason and knowledge rather than on religious belief or emotional response.
Secularism: The principle of separation of government institutions and persons mandated to represent the state from religious institutions and religious dignitaries.
John Locke: An influential Enlightenment thinker often known as the "Father of Liberalism". His theories about life, liberty, property influenced many revolutions including American Revolution.
"Enlightenment" appears in:
Study guides (3)
Practice Questions (20+)
- Which of the following revolutions lead to the Enlightenment in the Age of Reason, 1550-1700?
- Which of the following social developments were most influenced by Enlightenment thinking?
- Although some Enlightenment ideas inspired anti-slavery movements, which Enlightenment principle strengthened some legal systems of slavery?
- The Western European Enlightenment of the 1700s MOST emphasized
- The enlightenment was a _____ notion
- Chronologically, the Enlightenment philosophers were not the first to think logically and reasonably about the world around them. What movement most directly influenced the thought processes of the Enlightenment?
- Which of the following is a key feature of the Enlightenment philosophy?
- Who among the following Enlightenment philosophers emphasized the importance of individual rights and freedoms and rejected the idea of the divine right of kings and absolute monarchies?
- Which of the following is a way in which Enlightenment ideas diffused?
- Which of the following was emphasized by Enlightenment ideas regarding religion?
- What cultural trend emerged in Europe during the Enlightenment period?
- What major factor contributed to Enlightenment thinkers promoting systems based on reason, skepticism, and progress?
- Which of the following revolutions is most closely linked to Enlightenment concepts and ideals?
- Which principle of government is NOT associated with the Enlightenment?
- Who among the following philosophers is most closely associated with the concept of separation of powers during the Enlightenment?
- Which Enlightenment philosopher argued for the social contract theory, stating that governments should be formed based on the consent of the governed?
- Which Enlightenment philosopher had a significant influence on the American Revolution with his ideas about social contract and government's role in protecting individual rights?
- How did the enlightenment contribute to the rise of nationalism?
- What impact did enlightenment have on gender roles during that period?
- Which Enlightenment concept had the most profound impact on the development of modern democratic structures?
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