The Enlightenment in Europe

These flashcards cover key concepts from the Enlightenment era, including major philosophies, historical developments, and influential thinkers of the time.

Enlightenment

An intellectual movement emphasizing reason, individualism, and skepticism of tradition.

Empiricism

The theory that all concepts originate from experiences; knowledge comes from sensory experience.

Social Contract

An agreement among individuals to form a society and government, often associated with Rousseau.

Nationalism

A strong identification with and devotion to one's nation, often leading to the desire for independence.

Natural Rights

Fundamental human rights based on universal human dignity, often articulated by John Locke as life, liberty, and property.

Separation of Powers

A governance model proposed by Montesquieu where legislative, executive, and judicial powers are divided to prevent abuse.

Direct Democracy

A form of government in which political decisions are made directly by the voting populace rather than by representatives.

Deism

The belief in a rational God who created the universe but does not intervene in human affairs.

Voltaire

An Enlightenment writer and philosopher known for his advocacy of freedom of speech and criticism of religion.

Feminism

The advocacy of women's rights on the grounds of political, social, and economic equality to men.

Revolution

A forcible overthrow of a government or social order, in favor of a new system.

Education

A fundamental principle of the Enlightenment, believed to improve human rationality and societal progress.

Critical Inquiry

The process of questioning and analyzing information to gain deeper understanding, important in Enlightenment thinking.

Justice System

The system of law enforcement, courts, and corrections; Beccaria criticized its abuses and advocated for reform.

Superstition

Excessive belief in and reliance on supernatural interpretations and practices, often criticized by Enlightenment thinkers.

Rights of the Accused

Legal protections afforded to individuals accused of crimes, strongly advocated for by Cesare Beccaria.