The Enlightenment “I Think Therefore I Am” ~Rene Descartes

The Enlightenment Enlightenment – a period when breakthroughs in science contributed to new philosophies in different areas of life. It started in Paris, France

The Enlightenment The Enlightenment was lead by philosophes who believed they could improve society.

Enlightenment This resulted in dramatic progress in math, science, astronomy, politics, economics & philosophy. Breakthroughs in various areas of study contributed to dramatic social awareness and contributed to changes in government

Enlightenment Inspired the ideas behind the American and French Revolution Inspired the common people (newspapers) Concepts of freedom of speech/individual rights/government for the people. It increased opportunity for education and encouraged scientific experimentation

Find space on your paper and draw the following table… Philosophe Idea(s) Explanation of Idea Modern Day Use Locke Rousseau Montesquieu Hobbes Wollstonecraft

Locke Idea 1. Natural rights 2. Right to rebel Explanation of Idea 1. People had guaranteed freedoms 2. People can overthrow the government for violations of their rights

Locke (continued) Modern Day Use 1. The Bill of Rights (freedoms) 2. Right to impeach local and national leaders

Rousseau Ideas 1. Direct democracy 2. Social contract (will of the people) 3. People are naturally good, government makes them corrupt Explanation of Ideas 1. People can be trusted to rule themselves 2. People determine the outcome of their government

Rousseau (continued) Modern Day Use 1. Local elections 2. Right to protest and elect leaders

Montesquieu Ideas 1. Three branches of government (separation of powers) 2. Religious toleration Explanation of Ideas 1. Power should be spread out and not concentrated in one area 2. People can worship freely

Montesquieu (continued) Modern Day Use 1. Executive, judicial and legislative branches of government in the U.S. 2. No restrictions on religion

Hobbes Idea 1. Strong central government Explanation of Idea 1. A strong government is needed to keep order

Hobbes (continued) Modern Day Use 1. Government has power to make laws for the people

Wollstonecraft Ideas 1. Women’s rights 2. Democracy Explanation of Ideas 1. Women can get an education, vote and work 2. People can elect their own government

Wollstonecraft (continued) Modern Day Use 1. Women have more opportunities in society today