The Rest Is History 86. The Enlightenment
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Aug 16, 2021 Discover the transformative ideas of the Enlightenment, illuminating how reason, science, and revolution reshaped society. Explore the intricate ties between Enlightenment thought and Christianity, challenging traditional views. Delve into the global impact of key figures like Voltaire and Newton while uncovering paradoxes like scientific racism entwined with progress. Unearth the vibrant coffee house culture that fueled intellectual exchange and critique the contrasting philosophies of thinkers like Rousseau and Burke. It's a fascinating journey through one of history's most pivotal eras!
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Enlightenment Overview
- The Enlightenment, traditionally viewed as a shift from darkness to light, reason, and science, is a significant period in Western thought.
- It's characterized by intellectual excitement, salons, and the exchange of ideas among thinkers like Voltaire and Diderot.
Enlightenment's Significance
- The Enlightenment's significance lies in its global impact due to the influence of Europe and the United States.
- While culturally specific to 17th and 18th century Europe, it presents itself as universal, influencing how people perceive their own identities.
Context and Science
- The Enlightenment's socio-economic context is crucial, including post-Reformation Europe, mercantilism, and the rise of printing and literacy.
- The concept of science and the world as a machine, influenced by figures like Newton, also played a key role.