The Enlightenment An intellectual movement centered in France and England Truth based on logical thinking Criticize society Attack the Church, the slave trade, government, taxes and war. Believe in natural law Powers of the government should be shared by the people
The Enlightenment England Thomas Hobbes - England Social contract theory People are selfish and greedy give up their rights in return for safety Only government can create a peaceful, orderly society
The Enlightenment England John Locke People have natural rights Government exists to protect your rights NEVER give up your natural rights: Life, Liberty, and Property Rulers cannot limit natural rights People have the right to overthrow their government if it does not protect their rights
The Enlightenment France Baron de Montesquieu Checks and balances Separation of powers strengthened England’s government His ideas are found in the U.S. Constitution
The Enlightenment France Voltaire Against intolerance by the Catholic Church Supported individual liberty, free speech, thought, religion Attacked superstition, prejudice, bigotry, oppressive government
The Enlightenment Rousseau People are born naturally good Environment, education, and laws corrupt them Popular sovereignty Government by the people Opposed strong government Mary Wollstonecraft Equality & women’s rights