The Enlightenment was a philosophical revolution that took place mostly in the 1700s. This period set out to challenge the old ways of thought on government, with a huge emphasis on religion before this time. The Renaissance, which occurred from the 14th to 17th century, emphasized humanism and an individualistic approach. This era of "rebirth" also gave rise to artists like da Vinci and Michelangelo.
Enlightenment Philosophers
Some of the key enlightenment philosophers include Thomas Hobbes, John Locke, Charles-Louis Montesquieu, Niccolo Machiavelli, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, and William Blackstone. Each of these thinkers had their own unique ideas and theories on government and human nature.
Thomas Hobbes
Thomas Hobbes' work "Leviathan" emphasized the idea that people need a government because the state of nature, or birth, is inherently evil. He proposed the social contract theory, which states that people enter into a contract with the government for their own protection.
John Locke
On the other hand, John Locke believed that people are reasonable and have natural rights, including life, liberty, and property. He also proposed the social contract in practice and the right to revolution.
Charles-Louis Montesquieu
Montesquieu's work "The Spirit of Laws" focused on the dangers of tyranny when all powers were controlled by one man. He advocated for the separation of powers and checks and balances within the government.
Niccolo Machiavelli
Machiavelli is best known for his work "The Prince," in which he took a realist approach and stated that the ends justify the means. He famously wrote, "It is better to be feared than loved."
Jean-Jacques Rousseau
Rousseau believed that people are born good and that society corrupts them. He argued that the government's duty is to work for the common good and promote equality.
William Blackstone
Blackstone's "Commentaries on the Laws of England" served as the basis for English law by organizing laws and emphasizing limited government.
The Enlightenment Summary
Overall, the Enlightenment era was characterized by a shift towards using reason to solve human problems, rather than relying solely on religion and divine rights. This period also saw the rise of salons as gathering places for the exchange of new ideas.
Types of Democracy and Dictatorship
There are different types of democracy, including direct and indirect. In a direct democracy, citizens directly vote on laws, while in an indirect democracy, citizens elect leaders to represent them. Modern dictatorships, such as those found in China, North Korea, Iran, Libya, and Cuba, exert totalitarian or authoritarian control over their citizens.
The American Government System
The American government system is based on a republic model, wherein citizens elect leaders to represent them in separate branches. This system emphasizes popular sovereignty, limited government, and individual rights, as outlined in the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence.
The French and Indian War
The French and Indian War, also known as the 7 years war, pitted the French and Indians against the British. The British emerged victorious, but the war left them in debt. As a result, they imposed heavy taxation on the colonies, leading to tensions and ultimately the American Revolutionary War.
The Stamp Act and Townshend Act
The Stamp Act and Townshend Act were two such taxes imposed on the colonies, leading to widespread resistance and boycotts. The Stamp Act Congress called for a boycott and petition of rights and grievances, ultimately resulting in the repeal of the Stamp Act.
The Declaration of Independence
The Declaration of Independence, drafted by Thomas Jefferson, announced the break from British rule, emphasizing the principles of natural rights and the people's consent of the governed. This document serves as a cornerstone of American democracy.
Overall, the Enlightenment philosophical revolution was a time of profound change and progress in human thought and government theory. It laid the foundation for many of the democratic principles and structures that are still in use today.
