What is Enlightenment (1784)

Definition of Enlightenment: Enlightenment is defined as man’s emergence from his self-imposed immaturity.
Definition of Immaturity: Immaturity is the inability to use one’s understanding without guidance from another. This state is considered self-imposed when its cause stems not from a lack of understanding, but from a deficit in resolve and courage to utilize one's intellect independently.
The Motto of Enlightenment: $"Sapere$ $Aude!"$ (Dare to know!) which translates to, $"Have$ $courage$ $to$ $use$ $your$ $own$ $understanding!"$ This serves as the guiding principle for the concept of enlightenment.

Self-Imposed Immaturity (Laziness and Cowardice):
- Laziness and cowardice are identified as the primary reasons why a significant portion of humanity remains in a state of lifelong immaturity, even after they have naturally matured beyond the need for external guidance.
- This inherent ease of remaining immature makes it simple for others to assume the role of 'guardians'.
- Examples of Reliance: Individuals readily rely on external authorities: a book for understanding, a pastor for conscience, a physician for diet, and so forth. This reliance eliminates the need for personal exertion or thought, provided one can pay for these services.
The Role of Guardians:
- Those who take on the role of guardians (supervisors) actively work to keep the masses (including, notably, the entire $"fair$ $sex"$ as mentioned in the text) in a state of immaturity.
- They specifically cultivate the belief that achieving maturity is both dangerous and exceedingly difficult.
- Metaphor of Domestic Livestock: Kant uses the analogy of guardians making their