Enlightenment Ideas and Terms

Philosophes Name given to Enlightenment thinkers Philosophers and Critics of Society

Natural Law Idea that the world operated according to laws that were discoverable. People could use reason, especially science and math, to improve society.

Natural Rights Include life, liberty, pursuit of happiness. Also included are a person’s right to personal freedom and freedom of property.

Social Contract Idea that kings entered into a social contract with its people to protect their rights. If rights not protected, people could overthrow the ruler and create a new government.

Divine Right of Kings Idea that a king receives his right to rule from God only and could do whatever he wants to his people. To rebel against the king is to rebel against God!

Mercantilism The wealth of a nation depends on how it trades with other countries. Government should encourage exports and discourage imports through tariffs – taxes.

Absolute Monarchy A government controlled by a king or queen and passed on to their sons or daughters. Their commands are the LAW!

Constitutional Monarchy King or queen remains in charge while the country is ruled by a legislature or Parliament under a Constitution. No more divine right of kings.

Rationalism Truth can be discovered by reason and scientific discovery.

Enlightened Despotism System of govt. in which an absoulute monarch would rule, but according to the principles of the Enlightenment