1. Enlightenment Philosophers
Learning Target #4: I can evaluate the ways in which various enlightenment philosophers have influenced society in the United States.
CASS 10.2

2. Beginnings of Enlightenment
Began in the 1600s after the English Civil War
Widespread destruction and suffering that Europeans endured during years of religious wars made people wonder if it was really right to judge someone by their religious beliefs.
“Wouldn’t it be better if people got along with one another regardless of differences in opinion or belief?”
Reason, or sound common sense, should unite ALL men.
Led to the questioning of authority
Monarchy & Church

4. Fundamental Principles
New ideas and thinkers came to be called the “Enlightenment” because it was an attempt to combat the darkness of superstition with the light of reason.
1) Tolerance
Christianity had taught: “All men are created equal”
Enlightenment philosophers argued that men were not only created equal, but should be treated equal, as well.
2) Reason
Taught us there is no such thing as witchcraft, so no more women have been burned at the stake since 1712.
Diseases are no longer fought with superstition, but instead by cleanliness and science.
3) Humanity
We no longer have slavery or peasants throughout the majority of the world. All citizens are subject to the same laws, and women have more equal rights.

6. Enlightenment Philosophers
People called philosophers gathered to discuss politics and ideas.
John Locke (England)
Thought all men are born with natural rights and should be free
Voltaire (France)
Said freedom of speech should be permitted
Montesquieu
Urged tolerance and a government segmented into parts that shared power (separation of powers)
Rousseau (France)
Believed that government should be based on the decisions of the people
Hobbes (England)
Thought people are naturally selfish and wicked and need a strong gov’t (absolute monarchy)
Astell (England)
The “first English feminist”, argued for equality in education for women