Enlightenment Thinkers

Philosopher

A smart person who thinks deeply about big ideas and how the world works.

Example -Like a detective of ideas who asks big questions about life, just like when you wonder why the sky is blue

Scientific Revolution

A time when people started using experiments and careful thinking to understand how the world works.

Example: Imagine scientists becoming superhero investigators, discovering new secrets about nature

State of Nature

What life would be like if there were no rules or government.

Example- Like a playground with no teachers watching - everyone doing whatever they want

Social Contract

An agreement where people follow rules to keep everyone safe and happy. 

Example- Like a classroom promise where everyone agrees to be kind and listen to each other

Natural Rights

Special rights that all people have just by being human. 

Example- The right to be safe, to speak your mind, and to be treated fairly

Unalienable

Something that cannot be taken away from you.

Example- Your right to smile, laugh, and be yourself - no one can stop you!

Consent of the Governed

People agree to be led by a government they choose. 

Example- Like voting in a class election for class president.

Limited Government

A government with rules that stop it from becoming too powerful.

Example- Like having a playground monitor who helps keep things fair, but doesn't make all the rules. 

Separation of Powers

Splitting government jobs so no one person has too much control. 

Example- Like having different team captains for different games, so one person doesn't run everything

Checks and Balances

Ways to make sure no part of the government becomes too strong. 

Example- Like having referees in a game who make sure everyone plays by the rules.

Popular Sovereignty

People have the power to determine how they are governed.

Example- States deciding to be a free state or a slave state.