The Age of Reason

The Enlightenment was an intellectual movement during the 17th and 18th centuries that emphasized reason, science, and individual rights. Thinkers called philosophes championed ideas like liberty, equality, and democracy.

Key Philosophers

• John Locke: Advocated for natural rights and government by consent.
• Voltaire: Criticized religious intolerance and absolute monarchy.
• Mary Wollstonecraft: Early advocate for women's rights.

Major Ideas

• Separation of powers in government.
• Freedom of speech, religion, and the press.
• Social contract theory.

Lasting Influence

Enlightenment ideas inspired revolutions, including the American and French Revolutions, and form the foundation of many modern constitutions.

Everyday Relevance

Concepts like equality before the law, free speech, and secular government are rooted in Enlightenment thinking. These principles continue to shape debates about rights and governance.