Part 2: 1700’s The Enlightenment

Path to Enlightenment Philosophical movement of intellectuals impressed w/the achievements of Scientific Revolution Influenced by Isaac Newton- world is a giant machine, natural laws governed the world And John Locke- humans born blank and are molded by sensory experiences. People could change w/their environments.

Philosophes Philosophe- French for intellectual includes: philosophers, writers, economists, and social reformers quiz Goal- change the world Rational criticism applied to everything

Montesquieu #1 Wrote, The Spirit of the Laws, a study of governments Tried to apply the scientific method to find the natural law of gov. Republics, despotism, and monarchies Separation of powers- 3 branches of government- a system of political limits and control quiz Checks and balances Puts limits on power and provides the greatest freedom and security for the state

Voltaire #2 Prolific writer and wealthy Known for criticism of Christianity and religious tolerance Believed in deism- religious philosophy based on reason and natural law. Built on ideas of Newton A mechanic (God) created the universe, set it in motion, and allowed it run w/out interference according to its own natural laws. Quiz, #6

Diderot Created the Encyclopedia 28 volumes of knowledge he had collected Purpose- to change the general way of thinking Attacked religious superstition quiz Supported religious toleration Called for social, legal, and political improvements for a more tolerant/humane society Sold to doctors, lawyers, spread enlightenment

Physiocrats Founder of social sciences Believed that there are natural laws that govern human society Society ultimately benefits by letting individuals pursue own economic interests Government should not interrupt natural economics thru regulations Laissez-faire- “let (people) do (what they want)” quiz

Adam Smith #3 Wrote, The Wealth of Nations Governments should not interfere w/economic matters #7 Governments should: protect citizens from invasion, defend citizens from injustice, and keep up public works quiz, #7

Jean-Jacques Rousseau People adopted governments and laws to protect their property, then were enslaved by it Argued society should be governed by a social contract quiz Social contract- an agreement among individuals that they will be governed by the general will. #8 Believed in a balance of heart and mind, rule of the general will, and education fostering natural instincts. quiz

Women Mary Wollstonecraft considered founder of the women’s movement 2 problems w/thinkers If arbitrary power of monarchs wrong, then arbitrary power of men over women wrong #9 If all humans have reason, then that includes women #9 Women should have same rights as men

Salon Salon- elegant drawing rooms of the wealthy upper class Guests gathered here and discussed philosophy #10 Brought together writers, artists, government officials, aristocrats, and wealthy middle class. The women who hosted these parties were in a position to sway political opinion. #10

Methodism #11 People were seeking a deeper connection to God. John Wesley, preached in open fields, appealed to the masses, caused people to have conversion experiences Converts joined Methodist societies Gave middle and lower classes a sense of purpose

Rococo Rococo- Emphasized grace and charm with gentle action Used delicate designs w/graceful curves Tried to convey pursuit of happiness, pleasure, and love.

Rococo enchantment and enthusiasm

Music

Ideas of the Enlightenment Philosophes believed in natural rights for all men Includes: 1. Equality for all men. 2. Freedom of religion 3. Freedom of speech 4. Freedom of the press 5. Right to assemble

Enlightened rulers Allow religious toleration Freedom of speech and press Rights of property Promote arts, sciences, and education Obey the laws and enforce them fairly Enlightened absolutism?- rulers tried to govern by Enlightenment principles while keeping royal powers.

Joseph II #13 Only ruler to truly try Enlightened Absolutism Heir to Queen Maria Wanted to change the strong, centralized state Abolished serfdom, eliminated death penalty, enacted religious reforms Ticked everyone off, even the serfs

Quiz!