<aside> <img src="/icons/search_gray.svg" alt="/icons/search_gray.svg" width="40px" /> In this lesson, you will…
The Enlightenment refers to an important movement in 18th century European thought which was sparked by the Scientific Revolution and the Renaissance.
Enlightenment philosophers believed that by applying reason and scientific laws, people would be able to come to conclusions about human nature, “natural laws,” and question social and political institutions.
Thomas Hobbes believed that humans are naturally cruel, selfish, and people need to be protected from themselves.
Hobbes believed that the only way for them to be law and order in society is for people to give up their power and rights to an absolute ruler.
John Locke disagreed with the ideas of Hobbes.
Locke believed that people were born with natural rights, including life, liberty, and property; Locke argued that kings could be overthrown if they violated peoples’ rights.
Government power came from the consent of the governed and it should protect human rights.
Baron de Montesquieu shared the same viewpoint as John Locke when it comes to the importance of protecting individual liberties. In addition, Montesquieu strongly advocated for the concept of separation of powers within government. This principle suggests that the powers of the government should be divided among different branches, such as the executive, legislative, and judicial branches. By implementing this system, Montesquieu believed that it would prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful and potentially abusing their authority. Thus, he emphasized the need for a balanced distribution of powers to ensure the protection of individual liberties and the stability of the government.
<aside> <img src="/icons/bookmark-outline_gray.svg" alt="/icons/bookmark-outline_gray.svg" width="40px" /> Separation of powers: the idea that government should be divided into branches to split up power
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Voltaire was a prominent figure who expressed his disdain towards the Church and government. He not only mocked them but also advocated for the fundamental rights of freedom of speech and religion. His beliefs centered around the importance of allowing individuals to voice their opinions without fear of censorship or repercussions. Additionally, he strongly criticized various forms of intolerance, prejudice, and oppression that were prevalent during his time. Through his writings and actions, Voltaire aimed to challenge the status quo and promote a society that embraced tolerance, open-mindedness, and equality.
Rousseau firmly believed that at their core, human beings possess inherent goodness, yet he also recognized the potential for corruption when faced with power and authority. In light of this, he advocated for a system of governance known as a direct democracy. This form of government would place decision-making power directly into the hands of the citizens, allowing for their collective will to guide the course of action.
Cesare Beccaria criticized abuses in the justice system – such as torture, corruption, secret trials, and severe punishments for crimes.