Loosely affiliated movement of writers, artists, thinkers, and scientists, that affected aspects of life in Europe and the colonies

c. 1650-1800

What is the Enlightenment?

The Age of Enlightenment

Logic and Reason (common sense) Empiricism (Evidence-based thought) and

the Scientific Method Personal Freedom and Self-Governance Free Exchange of Ideas, and the

exploration of the logical, mathematical, or political Laws that govern the Universe.

Inspired by Democratic and Republican societies of ancient Greece and Rome, and the scientific and philosophical exploration that took place in them.

Basic Enlightenment Values

Superstitions Religious traditions and dogma Some social and class traditions and

structure Monarchies, aristocracy, and hereditary

governments

The Enlightenment Reacted Against….

Rene Descartes

Isaac Newton

Voltaire

John Locke

Adam Smith

American Enlightenment

In the American Revolution

In the American Revolution