The Enlightenment: Voltaire & Montesquieu What contributions do Voltaire & Montesquieu make to Western Democracy?

The Philosophes of France 1700s: The Enlightenment spreads to France French social critics known as the Philosophes, questioned absolute rule, believed reason should be used in all aspects of life Core beliefs incl: Reason, Nature, Happiness, Progress, Liberty Voltaire 1694-1778, born in France Voltaire is pen name, real name is Francois Arouet Believed in freedom of expression & civil liberties Wrote Candide Influences US Bill of Rights – 1st Amendment (freedom rights)

Voltaire published many works & used satire against his opponents, making fun of the church, nobles & French Govt. (King) Voltaire saw his pen as a deadly weapon in a “thinkers war”, fighting for reason & freedom of expression Voltaire wanted to end intolerance, prejudice & superstition His most famous quote is “I don’t agree with a word you say but will defend to the death your right to say it”. Baron de Montesquieu 1689-1755, born in France Real name was Charles-Louis de Secondat Believed in separation of powers Wrote: The Spirit of Laws Influences US Constitution Articles I-III (Three Branches), idea of checks & balances

Montesquieu studied politics and government, concluded power held by one man is dangerous Argues Britain had best form of Govt – they used three branches Argues each branch should have separate powers and the ability to check each other (separation of powers/checks & balances) He wrote that “power should be a check to power” Reflection: Which do you feel is more important, freedom rights or separating power? Give at least two examples as evidence