SS chapter 5 Enlightenment

John Locke: John Locke was an English philosopher who believed in the concept of natural rights and the social contract theory. He argued that individuals have the right to life, liberty, and property, and that governments should protect these rights.

Popular sovereignty: Popular sovereignty is the principle that the authority of a government is derived from the consent of the people. It emphasizes that the power to govern resides with the people, who can express their will through voting and participation in the political process.

Laissez faire: Laissez faire is an economic concept that advocates for minimal government intervention in the economy. It promotes free markets, free trade, and limited regulation, allowing individuals and businesses to operate without excessive government interference.

Montesquieu: Montesquieu was a French philosopher who proposed the idea of separation of powers in government. He argued that dividing power among different branches, such as the executive, legislative, and judicial, would prevent tyranny and promote liberty.

Adam Smith: Adam Smith was a Scottish economist and philosopher known as the father of modern economics. He advocated for free-market capitalism and wrote "The Wealth of Nations," which explored the principles of division of labor, self-interest, and the invisible hand guiding market forces.

Bill of Rights: The Bill of Rights refers to the first ten amendments to the United States Constitution. It guarantees certain fundamental rights and freedoms, such as freedom of speech, religion, and the right to a fair trial. It serves as a safeguard against government infringement on individual liberties.

Philosophes: Philosophes were intellectuals and thinkers during the Enlightenment period in Europe. They were critical of traditional institutions and advocated for reason, science, and progress. Some notable philosophes include Voltaire, Rousseau, and Montesquieu.

Voltaire: Voltaire was a French philosopher and writer who championed freedom of speech, religious tolerance, and separation of church and state. He used satire and wit to criticize social and political injustices of his time.

Rousseau: Jean-Jacques Rousseau was a Swiss philosopher who believed in the concept of the social contract and the idea that individuals are inherently good but corrupted by society. He emphasized the importance of direct democracy and the general will of the people.

Enlightened despots: Enlightened despots were absolute monarchs in Europe who embraced some of the ideas of the Enlightenment. They implemented reforms and policies aimed at improving the lives of their subjects, such as religious tolerance, education, and legal reforms.

Thomas Jefferson: Thomas