Chapter 18 Part II Pages 605-615 The Enlightenment

Enlightenment New World view in 18th century which played a large role in shaping the modern mind 3 key factors-1. methods of natural science should be used to examine and understand all aspects of life. 2. Sci. Method was capable of discovering the laws of human society as well as those of nature. 3. PROGRESS- enlightened thinkers believed it was possible to for human beings to create better societies and better people.

The Emergence of the Enlightenment The overriding idea of the Enlightenment was that natural science and reason can explain all aspects of life. The scientific method can explain the laws of nature. Progress is possible if the laws are understood and followed.

The Philosophes and the Public Many writers made Enlightenment thought accessible to a wide range of people. 2. Fontenelle stressed the idea of progress. 3. Skeptics such as Bayle believed that nothing can be known beyond all doubt. 4. Locke stressed that all ideas are derived from experience.

The Philosophes and the Public The French philosophes were committed to the fundamental reform of society. Montesquieu’s theory of the separation of powers was fundamental. Voltaire challenged traditional Catholic theology and freedom of speech.

The Later Enlightenment The later Enlightenment writers (Condorcet, Rousseau) created inflexible and dogmatic systems. Rousseau believed in the consent of the governed. Dogma-an official system of principles or tenets concerning faith, morals, behavior, etc., as of a church.

Urban Culture and Public Opinion The European market for books grew dramatically in the eighteenth century. Popular titles addressed a wide range of subjects. The illegal book trade included titles denouncing high political figures.

Urban Culture and Public Opinion The nature of reading changed. The reading public joined with the philosophes to call for the autonomy of the written word. Salons were centers of discussion and debate.