Introduction to Enlightenment

western civ quiz

Define Enlightenment; recognize two buzz words

Enlightenment is known as the “AGE OF REASON”, a period when thinkers used reason to better understand humanity, buzz words - Reason and Progress

Define Natural Law, Give an example

Laws that govern nature, example gravity

Connection Between Enlightenment and scientific revolution

The Scientific Revolution inspired the Enlightenment, they both use empiricism and natural law.

Three guiding principles of enlightenment thought

Skepticism - doubt, questioning authority 

Confidence - confidence in reason…reason gives answers to questions 

Progress - society can improve 

Define Deism; metaphor for the universe, god’s role in the universe

Root word is “deity” and -ism is “belief in” (belief in God)

Universe is like a clock, a universe

God helps those who help themselves 

Social Contract  and existence of govt.

Agreement between individuals and government. Gives up total freedom of a state of nature in exchange for security

Thomas Hobbes v John Locke

TH = negative and pessimistic view of humanity

believed Individuals should surrender all rights to the

government. 

Individual rights come from the government. 

JL =  positive and optimistic view of humanity 

believed humans have a sense of right and wrong. 

Natural rights limits government, and advocates for limited government

Natural Rights, three natural rights according to john locke

Natural rights from God are life, liberty and property.