Roots of the Enlightenment

Scholasticism

A method of critical thought which dominated teaching by the academics ('schoolmen') of medieval universities in Europe.

Humanism

A Renaissance intellectual movement that emphasized human potential and achievements within a Christian framework.

Reformation

A movement in the 16th century that resulted in a challenge to the monolithic power of the Roman Catholic Church, leading to increased educational opportunities, particularly in Protestant countries.

Intellectual counter response of Jesuits

A response during the Reformation focusing on education and missionary work to counter Protestant reforms.

Age of Exploration

A historical period marked by European exploration of the world, leading to exposure to different cultures and a challenge to absolute moral values.

Scientific Revolution

A period of great advancements in scientific thought and methodologies, characterized by the emphasis on rationalism and empirical evidence.

Rationalism

A philosophical approach emphasizing knowledge through reason, asserting that certain truths exist independently of sensory experience.

Empiricism

A philosophical stance asserting that knowledge comes primarily from sensory experience.

Dissatisfaction with traditional knowledge

A critique of previous methods of acquiring knowledge, particularly traditional authority represented by religious institutions.

Montesquieu's Spirit of the Laws

A comparative study of governments that argues no single best government exists and emphasizes the influence of culture and climate on governance.

Voltaire

An influential Enlightenment writer known for his wit and advocacy for civil liberties, who criticized religious intolerance and dogma.

Encyclopedia

A comprehensive work edited by Diderot that aimed to compile and disseminate knowledge while challenging traditional beliefs.

The General Will

A concept introduced by Rousseau suggesting that the collective interest of a community is aligned with individual freedoms.

Hume's skepticism

A philosophical position arguing that human understanding is limited to experiences, leading to doubts about the certainty of knowledge.

Kant's solution to skepticism

Immanuel Kant's argument that while our understanding of the world is through experience, there are limits to what we can truly know.

Toleration

The justification for permitting beliefs and practices that differ from mainstream societal norms, often discussed in Enlightenment discourse.

Civil Religion

A concept proposed by Rousseau suggesting a belief system that binds citizens together in a shared community, distinct from institutionalized religions.

Deism

A philosophical belief in a rational God who created the universe but does not intervene in everyday life, often contrasted with organized religion.

Natural rights

Fundamental human rights believed to be granted inherently; notably articulated by John Locke as life, liberty, and property.

Pietism

A movement within Lutheranism aiming to revive and re-invigorate Christian faith and practice.

Enlightenment

An intellectual movement of the 17th and 18th centuries promoting reason, skepticism of authority, and the pursuit of knowledge.

Physiocracy

An economic theory that advocated for the prioritization of agricultural production and free market principles over mercantilism.