Age of Enlightenment

Definition

The Age of Enlightenment was an intellectual and philosophical movement that emerged in Europe during the late 17th and 18th centuries, emphasizing reason, individualism, and skepticism of traditional authority. This period fostered a shift towards scientific thought and rational discourse, paving the way for modern political journalism by advocating for informed public debate and challenging established norms.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Age of Enlightenment laid the groundwork for modern democracy by promoting ideas about human rights, liberty, and the separation of powers in government.
2. Key figures of this era included philosophers such as Voltaire, Immanuel Kant, and John Locke, whose writings greatly influenced political thought and journalism.
3. The movement encouraged critical thinking and the questioning of established traditions, leading to increased public participation in political discussions.
4. Enlightenment thinkers advocated for freedom of speech and press, which were essential for the development of political journalism as a means to hold power accountable.
5. The ideas from the Age of Enlightenment significantly contributed to revolutionary movements in America and France, reshaping political landscapes around the world.

Review Questions

• How did the Age of Enlightenment influence the principles of political journalism?
  • The Age of Enlightenment significantly influenced political journalism by promoting values such as reason, individual rights, and critical discourse. Enlightenment thinkers argued for freedom of speech and press, emphasizing that an informed citizenry is vital for democracy. This led to a greater demand for transparency and accountability in governance, ultimately shaping how journalists report on political matters and engage with the public.
• In what ways did Enlightenment philosophers challenge traditional authorities, and how did this affect public perceptions of government?
  • Enlightenment philosophers challenged traditional authorities by questioning the legitimacy of monarchies and established religious doctrines. They emphasized reason over blind faith, leading to a growing skepticism about the divine right of kings. This shift in thinking contributed to changing public perceptions of government as people began to see themselves as active participants in shaping society rather than passive subjects under authoritarian rule.
• Evaluate the impact of the Print Revolution during the Age of Enlightenment on political awareness among citizens.
  • The Print Revolution had a profound impact on political awareness among citizens during the Age of Enlightenment by making information more accessible than ever before. With newspapers, pamphlets, and books widely distributed, Enlightenment ideas spread rapidly across Europe, fostering informed public debates about governance and society. This democratization of knowledge empowered individuals to engage with political issues critically, leading to increased civic participation and laying the foundation for modern democratic practices.

Related terms

Rationalism: A philosophical belief that reason is the primary source of knowledge and that it can lead to understanding the world and human existence.

Social Contract: A theory developed by political philosophers like John Locke and Jean-Jacques Rousseau, which posits that governments are formed by the consent of the governed, emphasizing the rights and responsibilities of citizens.

Print Revolution: The widespread distribution of printed materials in the 17th and 18th centuries, which played a crucial role in disseminating Enlightenment ideas and facilitating public discourse.