1. The Enlightenment

2. Enlightenment Thinkers Enlightenment influenced by Greek Philosophy and Scientific Revolution. Enlightenment influenced by Greek Philosophy and Scientific Revolution. Enlightened thinkers believed by applying reason/scientific laws, people could better understand both nature and society. Enlightened thinkers believed by applying reason/scientific laws, people could better understand both nature and society.

3. Enlightenment thinkers wanted to make the world a better place.

4. Improving Society Enlightenment thinkers frequently questioned the power of Roman Catholic Church and Absolutism Enlightenment thinkers frequently questioned the power of Roman Catholic Church and Absolutism

5. Enlightenment John Locke – believed people had natural rights (life, liberty, and property) John Locke – believed people had natural rights (life, liberty, and property)

6. Voltaire supported free speech

7. Montesquieu supported separation of powers in government. (Different branches of government) Montesquieu supported separation of powers in government. (Different branches of government)

8. Rousseau believed government should express will of the people.

9. Adam Smith wrote Wealth of Nations - believed government should follow a business policy of laissez faire (hands off)

10. In a free market, individuals are free to buy and sell without government intervention. ***SUPPLY AND DEMAND***

11. Like scientists, Enlightenment thinkers carefully observed society and looked for principles best suited for its functioning.

12. Even some monarchs, like Russia’s Catherine the Great, tried to apply Enlightenment ideas to improve society.

13. However, Catherine would not part with any of her absolute power.

14. Questions for Reflection: How did the Scientific Revolution influence the Enlightenment? How did the Scientific Revolution influence the Enlightenment? What were the goals of Enlightenment thinkers? What were the goals of Enlightenment thinkers? Who was Voltaire and what did he believe? Who was Voltaire and what did he believe? Describe Adam Smith’s observations of the free market. Describe Adam Smith’s observations of the free market. What aspect of the Enlightenment did Catherine the Great not accept? What aspect of the Enlightenment did Catherine the Great not accept?