Philosophy in the Age of Reason Chapter 2 Section 1 Philosophy in the Age of Reason

What was an Enlightenment Thinker? An Enlightenment Thinker was a philosopher during the Age of Reason. These thinkers brought forth ideas that had not been contemplated previously, including areas of: science Government society

Thomas Hobbes Wrote Leviathan Presented the concept of social contract Idea that people give up their rights for an organized society.

John Locke Wrote Two Treatises of Government. Said that people form governments to protect their natural rights of life, liberty, and property. Said that government has an obligation to those it governs.

Baron de Montesquieu Wrote Spirit of the Laws. Presented the idea of Separation of Powers. Presented the idea of Checks and Balances.

Francois-Marie Arouet: Voltaire Criticized powerful governments for being unjust. Attacked corrupt government and inequality. Supported the Freedom of Speech.

Jean-Jacques Rousseau Wrote The Social Contract. Hated political and economic oppression. Thought that society was restrictive. Worked for the will of the majority and the common good.

Mary Wollstonecraft Wrote A Vindication of the Rights of Women. Thought that there should be equal education for girls and boys.

Adam Smith Wrote The Wealth of Nations. Promoted laissez faire economics. Thought that free market should regulate business.