CFU: Enlightenment Ideas (1.3)

Opposition to absolute monarchy

No ruler should have unlimited power.

Separation of powers

Power should be distributed across different branches of government

Liberty & individual rights

All men possess natural rights to life, liberty, and property

Equality

All men are created equal and no one should be born into more power than another

Free market capitalism

Governments should allow markets to operate with minimal regulations

Modern example of the ideas

American Revolution: Political and intellectual leaders in Britain’s thirteen American colonies used Enlightenment values to justify their declaration of independence. Liberty, equality, and individual rights became enshrined in the U.S. Constitution,