Unit 5

Enlightenment

An intellectual movement applying rationalism and empiricism to understand the natural world and human relationships.

Rationalism

Emphasizes reason as the most reliable source of true knowledge over emotion or external authority.

Empiricism

Asserts that true knowledge is gained through the senses, particularly through rigorous experimentation.

Scientific Revolutions

Scientists used reason to understand the world, moving away from biblical and religious authority.

Deism

Belief in a non-intervening God, popular among Enlightenment thinkers.

Atheism

Complete rejection of religious beliefs and divine beings.

Individualism

Focuses on the individual human as the basic element of society, not collective groups.

Natural Rights

Inherent rights of individuals that cannot be infringed upon by any entity.

Social Contract

Human societies form governments to protect natural rights.

Major Revolutions

American, French, Haitian, and Latin American revolutions influenced by Enlightenment ideas.

Nationalism

Commonality among people based on shared language, religion, and social customs.

Popular Sovereignty

Power to govern lies with the people.

Democracy

People have the right to vote and influence government policies.

Liberalism

Emphasizes civil rights, representative government, private property protection, and economic freedom.

American Revolution

Inspired by Enlightenment principles, leading to independence and a republican government.

French Revolution

Sparked by democratic ideas, resulting in the overthrow of the monarchy and establishment of a republic.

Haitian Revolution

Initiated in 1791, influenced by Enlightenment ideals.