The Enlightenment

Definition

The Enlightenment was an intellectual and philosophical movement that dominated the world of ideas in Europe during the 17th to 19th century. It emphasized reason, analysis, and individualism rather than traditional lines of authority.

Related terms

Age of Reason: This term is often used interchangeably with 'The Enlightenment'. It refers to the time period where cultural and intellectual forces emphasized reason, analysis, and individualism over traditional systems.

Philosophes: These were public intellectuals during the Age of Reason who applied reason to the study of many areas of learning including philosophy, history, science, politics, economics and social issues.

Secularism: A principle that involves two basic propositions; first is the strict separation of institutions such as Church (religion) from governmental or state institutions (politics), and second is that people should be free from religious rule and teachings.