The Enlightenment, which spanned the 17th and 18th centuries, was characterized by several key ideas that significantly challenged traditional authority:
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Reason and Rationalism: Enlightenment thinkers emphasized the use of reason as the primary source of knowledge and legitimacy. They argued that human beings could understand and shape the world through rational thought, rather than relying on religious dogma or superstition. This shift encouraged individuals to question long-standing beliefs and institutions, including monarchy and the church.
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Individual Rights and Freedom: Enlightenment philosophers advocated for individual rights, liberty, and the concept of social contracts. Thinkers like John Locke argued that government should be based on the consent of the governed and exist to protect individual freedoms. This idea directly challenged the authority of absolute monarchies and traditional hierarchies that prioritized the power of rulers over the rights of individuals.
These ideas collectively fostered a spirit of inquiry and skepticism towards established authority, paving the way for revolutions and democratic movements that sought to establish a more just and rational society.