18th Century Philosophy

18th-century philosophy, often called the Enlightenment, emphasized reason, science, and individual rights. Thinkers like Kant, Voltaire, and Rousseau challenged tradition, advocating for critical thinking, skepticism of authority, and the importance of empirical evidence. They believed progress was possible through education and rational debate, promoting ideas like freedom of speech, religious tolerance, and political equality. This period laid the groundwork for modern ideas about democracy, human rights, and scientific inquiry, shaping how societies understand justice, ethics, and the role of government.