Enlightenment rationalism

Enlightenment rationalism was an intellectual movement from the 17th to 19th centuries that emphasized reason, scientific evidence, and logical thinking as the primary tools for understanding the world. Thinkers believed that humans could improve society and knowledge through critical thinking, skepticism of tradition, and empirical investigation rather than relying solely on religious or superstitious beliefs. This approach encouraged questioning authority, promoting education, and advancing discoveries in science and philosophy, helping to shape modern ideas about democracy, individual rights, and progress. Overall, rationalism during this period prioritized human reasoning as the key to understanding truth and improving society.