The Enlightenment The Age Of THINKING!

WHAT WOULD YOU DO?

Enlightenment Time Period during the 18 th Century or between People were asking questions. How do we make life better?

Where did the Enlightenment Begin? The Enlightenment began in France. Philosophes were French Thinkers who came up with new ideas. They believed people are naturally good. If people used reason to live, they would have a better life.

Impact of New Ideas The Enlightenment ideas in Europe strongly influenced the American and French Revolutions. Why might new ideas inspire revolution?

Hobbes Opposite of most Enlightened Thinkers Believed people were evil and selfish. Give up rights to a strong ruler. Strong Ruler = Law and Order

Hobbes Quote “It is not wisdom but authority that makes a law.”

John Locke Government must protect a citizen’s Life, Liberty, and Property. If government violates people’s rights, people have the right to rebel. Against Absolute Rulers

Locke Quote “Every man has a property in his own person. This nobody has a right to, but himself.”

Voltaire Tolerance Freedom of speech and religion

Voltaire Quote “I do not agree with what you have to say, but I’ll defend to the death your right to say it.”

Montesquieu Political liberty Believed in democracy Checks and balances

Montesquieu Quote “Power should be a check to power.”

Rousseau Individual Freedom People are good but are corrupted by society All people are created equal Social Contract: Give up some freedoms for common good.

Rousseau Quote “Man is born free, and everywhere he is in chains.”

Mary Wollstonecraft Promoted education of women Equal rights and opportunities for women Women are just as smart as men!

Wollstonecraft Quote “Strengthen the female mind by enlarging it.”

Think About It.... In your opinion, which Enlightened Thinker had the most valuable ideas? Why?