Part 2 - absolutism and the scientific revolution Flashcards
What is an absolute monarch?
A ruler with total control over government and citizens, such as Louis XIV of France. This centralized power system often suppressed opposition to maintain order and authority.
Examples include Louis XIV of France, whose reign exemplified centralized power during the 17th century.
What is secularism?
The separation of religion from political and public affairs. Enlightenment thinkers promoted secularism to prioritize reason and individual freedoms over religious dominance.
Who was John Locke?
Enlightenment philosopher advocating natural rights to life, liberty, and property. His ideas influenced modern democracy and movements like the American Revolution.
Who was Thomas Hobbes?
Philosopher who argued in Leviathan for a strong government to prevent chaos in a naturally self-interested society. He supported centralized authority for stability.
Who was Voltaire?
Enlightenment writer who championed free speech, religious tolerance, and civil rights. His critiques of monarchy and the Church inspired revolutionary thought in France.
Who was Jean-Jacques Rousseau?
Philosopher who argued in The Social Contract that governments derive legitimacy from the people. His ideas on democracy influenced both the French and American Revolutions.
Who was Mary Astell?
Early feminist advocating women’s education and equality in marriage. Her works challenged 17th-century gender norms.
Who was Mary Wollstonecraft?
Author of A Vindication of the Rights of Woman, promoting gender equality in education. Her ideas shaped the foundation of modern feminism.
What were salons?
Enlightenment-era gatherings where intellectuals exchanged ideas. Hosted by prominent women, salons spread revolutionary and philosophical thought.
What are enlightened despots?
Monarchs like Catherine the Great who embraced reforms while maintaining power. They blended Enlightenment ideals with authoritarian rule.
Examples include Catherine the Great of Russia and Frederick the Great of Prussia.
What was the Scientific Revolution?
A shift in scientific understanding (16th-18th centuries) driven by figures like Newton and Galileo. This period laid the foundation for modern science and rational inquiry.
Political Revolutions
Overthrow governments to create systemic change, like the American Revolution (independence) or the French Revolution (monarchy to republic).
Non-Political Revolutions
Transform societies in areas like technology or economy without directly altering governance. Examples include the Industrial Revolution, which shifted economies to industrialization, and the Digital Revolution, revolutionizing communication and information
