WI2: Enlightenment Flashcards
Describe the Enlightenment
The Enlightenment was an intellectual movement that emphasized the power of individuals to solve problems, particularly related to political issues and lack of freedoms/rights.
Who were some major figures of the Enlightenment with French names?
Some major figures of the Enlightenment with French names include Voltaire, Rousseau, and Montesquieu.
What were some key ideas Thomas Hobbes during the Enlightenment?
Thomas Hobbes believed that people are evil and selfish needing government, law, and order from a monarchy prevent chaos. He also emphasized the social contract and the need for individuals to hand over rights to the monarchy.
Explain John Locke’s contributions to the Enlightenment.
John Locke introduced the concept of natural (human) rights, stating that people are born free and equal, with rights to life, liberty, and property. His ideas influenced the Declaration of Independence and emphasized the purpose of government to protect these rights.
What was the purpose of the separation of powers according to John Locke?
According to John Locke, the purpose of the separation of powers was to ensure that even if people were excluded by documents, they would still be influenced by the ideas of governance and have a say in the government.
Describe the core beliefs of the Enlightenment.
The core beliefs of the Enlightenment include reason and logic, the idea that what is natural is good and reasonable, seeking happiness on earth, the belief that society can improve through dialogue, and the value liberty.
Who is Voltaire and what were his major ideas?
Voltaire was a major figure of the Enlightenment who used a pen name for safety. He advocated for free speech, went against the Catholic Church and French monarchy, and famously said, ‘I do not agree with a word you say but will defend the death your right to say it.’
Describe Mary Astell’s views on marriage and women’s rights.
Mary Astell places blame on men, believes women become property of their husbands when married, and criticizes the unequal relationship between men and women.
What were Montesquieu’s beliefs and methods of conveying his message?
Montesquieu believed in the separation of powers, supported the British government, advocated for checks and balances, promoted political liberty, and used satire to mock the French government.
How did Phillis Wheatley express her ideas and what inspired her writing?
Phillis Wheatley, a former slave, wrote about pressing issues through poetry, saw herself in Locke’s ideas of natural rights, and was inspired by his ideas despite his racist views.
Define the purpose and characteristics of the Encyclopedie.
The Encyclopedie aimed to assemble and disassemble existing knowledge, educate the public, be easily reproduced, and provide easy access to information.
What was the role of coffee houses in fostering intellectual exchange during this period?
Coffee houses served as spaces where individuals could share ideas, discuss diverse opinions on various subjects, and engage in intellectual conversations.
What were the effects of the Enlightenment on art and music?
Art saw the rise of Neoclassical style and Rococo, while music transitioned to Classical music.
Define Enlightened Despots and name some examples.
Enlightened Despots were rulers who embraced Enlightenment ideas to reform their countries, such as Frederick the Great of Prussia and Catherine the Great of Russia.
How did Rousseau view the role of women in society?
Rousseau believed that women were made to serve men.
