Enlightenment thinkers

Enlightenment thinkers were a group of intellectuals in the 17th and 18th centuries who emphasized reason, individualism, and scientific inquiry over tradition and religious authority. Key figures included John Locke, who advocated for natural rights; Voltaire, who championed freedom of speech; and Jean-Jacques Rousseau, who explored social contracts and democracy. Their ideas promoted the belief that humanity could improve society through rational thought, leading to advancements in politics, science, and human rights, and significantly influencing modern democratic governance and ethics. The Enlightenment laid the groundwork for the modern world, encouraging critical thinking and progressive change.