1. The Enlightenment
The Age of Reason

2. The Scientific Revolution
Mid-1500’s-1600’s, scientists began questioning accepted beliefs often promoted by the church. This was very controversial.
The scientific method was developed
Great scientific men of the day: Copernicus, Galileo & Newton
The questioning of accepted beliefs in science extended itself to other areas of life- government, religion & society

3. Scientific Revolution
In 1632, Galileo Galilei used logic, reinforced with observation, to argue for Copernicus’ idea that the earth rotates on its axis around the sun.
Forced to deny the theory and live on house arrest until his death.

4. The Enlightenment, mid-1700’s
Questioning during the Scientific Revolution led many philosophers to begin questioning government
Locke, Montesquieu, Rousseau and Voltaire were great Enlightenment thinkers

5. Voltaire French philosopher
Published more than 70 books on politics & philosophy
Criticized the clergy, aristocrats (rich) & the government
Fought for freedom of religion and speech
Exiled/jailed many times for his ideas

6. Social Contract Thomas Hobbes John Locke
Humans are naturally cruel, greedy and selfish.
To escape this “brutish” life people entered into a social contract.
Only a powerful government could ensure an orderly society.
Believed only an absolute monarchy could keep a society completely orderly.
Humans are naturally reasonable, moral and good
Humans have natural rights: life liberty and property
People form governments to protect natural rights
Best government was one with limited power
If a government violates people’s natural rights, people have the right to overthrow government

7. Why it matters today
The new beliefs on government are the foundation of many democracies around the world
Scientific method and medical knowledge
Inspired revolutionary movements
Religious tolerance
People began to question their beliefs on religion, government and society.

8. Spread of Enlightenment
Paris Salons- social gatherings to discuss ideas
Encyclopedia 1st published in 1751
Art & Literature
Novels became popular
Enlightened Monarchs

9. “Enlightened Monarchs”
Most of Europe ruled by absolute monarchs
Receptive to Enlightenment ideas
Instituted new laws and practices
Enlightened Monarchs
Frederick II, Prussia
Catherine the Great, Russia
Maria Theresa, Austria
Joseph II, Holy Roman Empire
Gustav III, Sweden
Napoleon I, France