Enlightenment thinking

Enlightenment thinking, which emerged in the 17th and 18th centuries, emphasizes reason, science, and individualism as guides for understanding the world and improving society. It encourages questioning tradition and authority, advocating for evidence-based knowledge, democratic principles, and human rights. Thinkers like Locke, Voltaire, and Rousseau promoted ideas that helped shape modern concepts of liberty, equality, and progress, moving away from superstition and absolute monarchy toward rational inquiry and secular governance. Overall, Enlightenment thinking advocates critical thinking, curiosity, and the belief that humans can shape their future through reasoned action.