The Enlightenment

What was the Enlightenment?

A period in the 1600s-1700s when thinkers used reason and logic to understand society and government.

What inspired the Enlightenment?

The Scientific Revolution, Reformation, and Renaissance.

What key questions did Enlightenment thinkers ask?

Should kings have unlimited power? What natural rights do people have? Can knowledge improve society?

What did Enlightenment thinkers believe about reason?

That it could uncover truth and improve government and society.

What historical event shaped Thomas Hobbes' views?

The English Civil War.

How did Hobbes view human nature?

Humans are selfish and violent without strong control.

What was Hobbes' solution for order?

An absolute monarchy to keep peace.

What was Hobbes' social contract idea?

People give up some freedom in exchange for safety and order.

How did Locke view human nature?

Humans can learn, improve, and make good decisions.

What natural rights did Locke believe all people are born with?

Life, Liberty, and Property.

What was the purpose of government according to Locke?

To protect natural rights.

What did Locke say people could do if government fails?

Overthrow it.

Whose ideas influenced the American Revolution?

John Locke.

What was Voltaire known for?

Satire and writings criticizing the Church, monarchy, and intolerance.

What freedoms did Voltaire fight for?

Freedom of speech, freedom of religion, and tolerance.

What was Montesquieu's key political idea?

Separation of powers.

What are the three branches Montesquieu described?

Executive, Legislative, Judicial.

What does separation of powers prevent?

Tyranny — "Power should be a check to power."

What did Rousseau believe about society?

It corrupts natural goodness; people should follow the general will.

What major revolution did Rousseau influence?

The French Revolution.