Enlightenment philosophers

Definition

Enlightenment philosophers were thinkers in the 17th and 18th centuries who championed reason, individualism, and skepticism of traditional authority. They sought to apply the principles of the Scientific Revolution to social and political issues, laying the groundwork for modern democratic thought. Their ideas significantly influenced political theory and practice, including critiques of Plato's political philosophy.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Enlightenment philosophers such as John Locke, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, and Voltaire critiqued the absolute power seen in Plato's ideal state, advocating instead for limited government and individual rights.
2. Their emphasis on reason led them to challenge the idea of a philosopher-king, which is central to Plato's Republic, promoting instead democratic governance based on popular consent.
3. The Enlightenment period was characterized by the belief that human beings are capable of improving their own lives through rational thought and education, a shift from Platonic idealism.
4. Many Enlightenment thinkers believed that knowledge should be accessible to all, contrasting with Plato’s notion that only a select few possess the understanding needed for leadership.
5. The writings of Enlightenment philosophers laid the intellectual foundation for revolutions in America and France, where ideas about freedom and equality directly opposed Platonic thought.

Review Questions

• How did Enlightenment philosophers critique Plato's concept of the philosopher-king?
  • Enlightenment philosophers criticized Plato's idea of the philosopher-king by arguing that concentrating power in a single ruler undermines individual freedoms and democratic principles. Thinkers like John Locke emphasized that governance should derive from the consent of the governed rather than from an elite class. This perspective led to advocating for systems where multiple voices and opinions could shape political decisions, contrasting sharply with Plato's vision of an enlightened ruler guiding society.
• In what ways did Enlightenment ideas about government differ from those proposed by Plato?
  • Enlightenment thinkers differed from Plato by prioritizing individual rights and democratic governance over an idealized authoritarian rule. While Plato suggested a rigid caste system with a ruling class of philosopher-kings, Enlightenment philosophers like Rousseau advocated for social contracts where authority is derived from the people. They argued that legitimacy comes from the governed rather than an elite class claiming inherent wisdom or virtue.
• Evaluate how Enlightenment philosophies contributed to modern democratic ideals while challenging Platonic thought.
  • Enlightenment philosophies significantly contributed to modern democratic ideals by advocating for reason, equality, and liberty while simultaneously challenging Platonic thought's hierarchical structure. By promoting the notion that all individuals possess inherent rights and capabilities, Enlightenment philosophers dismantled Plato's elitist vision of governance. The emphasis on popular sovereignty and accountability set the stage for contemporary democratic practices, demonstrating a clear shift from ancient philosophical traditions toward a more inclusive approach to political authority.

Related terms

Social Contract: A theory that individuals give up certain freedoms in exchange for the protection of their remaining rights, forming the basis of legitimate government authority.

Rationalism: The philosophical belief that reason is the primary source of knowledge and that it should be used to challenge accepted beliefs and institutions.

Liberty: The state of being free within society from oppressive restrictions imposed by authority on one’s way of life, behavior, or political views.